ALPENA — The Alpena Downtown Development Authority is seeking artists to paint murals in Downtown Alpena this summer as part of its Fresh Waves project.
Artist applications are due by midnight Sunday, March 15. Downtown property owners within the Downtown Development Authority district can also apply to have a mural painted on their building, with applications due by midnight Sunday, Feb. 15.
Now in its eighth year, Fresh Waves is a public arts initiative created in 2019 to introduce artwork to Downtown Alpena. The project has completed 29 pieces of artwork in the downtown district by artists from around the country. In 2025, Fresh Waves added two new murals on properties facing the Thunder Bay River.
“Every mural downtown is so beautiful and creative, and it truly amazes me with what these artists can do,” said Savannah Peterson, the Downtown Development Authority’s administrative assistant. “Not only are they amazing artists but they’re all wonderful people, and it’s been so beneficial having them bring their artwork to downtown Alpena.”
Artists applying must submit a completed artist application form, a link to an online portfolio or samples of previous work, a reference from a past commission and up to three concepts for what would be painted, which can include a written description, rough sketch or concept.
Selected artists will receive compensation for services rendered and supplies. Artists do not need to be based in Michigan to apply.
Both applications are available at this link.
Those seeking more information can contact the Downtown Development Authority office at 989-356-6422 or anneg@alpena.mi.us.