The City of Allentown invites artists to participate in the City’s 1st Annual Go with the Flow Inlet Mural Painting Contest.
The contest aims to call attention to the small but significant pieces of infrastructure – 8,800 inlets in Allentown, that connect our streets to our streams. By creating captivating murals, artists will raise awareness about the detrimental effects of pollution flowing with rainwater, emphasizing its impact on the health of our environment.
"Our team wanted to find a creative and innovative ways to increase awareness of environmental issues," said Mayor Matt Tuerk. "We're massive supporters of the arts, so this was a great way for us to combine the two, as well as provide a unique opportunity for artists to leave a unique and lasting impact on our city. I'm so excited to see how Allentown's brilliant arts community will unleash their creativity and present solutions to inspire a cleaner and healthier Allentown."
Artists and artist groups interested in participating are required to submit their applications and sketch designs by the deadline of August 1, 2023. The City will select and notify nine finalists by August 31.
These finalists will then paint their designs on one of nine pre-identified inlet grates in the Arts Park – each measuring as 3 feet by 4 feet rectangular area. The City will provide paint, sealant, brushes, stirrers, and any safety materials. Murals must be completed by October 15, 2023.
The public will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite murals, determining the first and second place prize winners, who will be recognized as Clean Stormwater Champions at the City’s Stormwater Stewardship Awards in November.
For more detailed information and to submit an application, please visit https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/5525029e2285454bb8350695692ba19b or visit https://www.allentownpa.gov/Public-Works/Stormwater-Program/Community-Involvement-Educational-Opportunities.
Artists with any questions can contact Stormwater Education Manager Gabriel Caprio at 610-437-7587.