Business for the Arts Broward Announces Call to Artists for 2026 Mural Mentorship Program

Business for the Arts Broward (BFA) is now accepting applications from emerging mural artists for its 2026 Public Art Mentorship Program, an intensive professional development opportunity designed to help artists gain the skills and experience needed to pursue careers in large-scale public art.

Ten selected artists will work alongside acclaimed Lead Artist Mentors Lori Pratico and Nate Dee (Nate Diaz) to design and execute approximately 2,835 square feet of public art at North Broward Christian School, located at 1401 Sistrunk Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale. Spanning multiple wall surfaces along Sistrunk Boulevard, the completed murals will become a lasting visual landmark celebrating education, creativity and community.

Artists selected for the program will be divided into two teams of five mentees. Each mentor will guide a dedicated group while collaborating with all participants throughout the program. Mentees will receive hands-on training in every stage of the mural-making process, including concept development, design presentation, project management and final installation.

“Mural artists often face challenges transitioning from studio practice to large-scale public art projects,” said Lori Pratico, program coordinator for BFA Broward and one of the program’s lead mentors. “This mentorship is designed to bridge that gap by providing artists with the technical skills, professional knowledge and real-world experience necessary to pursue future public art opportunities.”

Each selected artist will receive a $5,000 stipend for participating in the program, along with professional mentorship, career development training and continued support after project completion.

The program curriculum will cover a wide range of topics essential to building a successful mural practice, including budgeting and pricing, contracts and insurance, client communication, material selection, surface preparation, mural installation

techniques, lift and site safety, maintenance and protective coatings, and long-term career strategies.

Participants will also receive professional documentation of the completed murals and recognition in project marketing and promotional materials.

Business for the Arts Broward serves as a connector between businesses, artists, cultural organizations and the community to strengthen Broward County’s creative economy. Through public art initiatives, artist opportunities, exhibitions, events and strategic partnerships, BFA Broward works to create a more vibrant place to live, work and visit.

For more information and application details, visit bfabroward.org/programs/public-art/mural-mentorship/.