2026 MAHAL Mural — Open Call for Artists

Description

For this mural project, Mahal is not just a theme but a practice. We're asking artists what Mahal means to them.

Kultivate Labs is sponsoring the production of 2  murals in the Jessie West alley. These murals will accompany another mural being produced by Kultivate Labs.

The theme for this open call is 'MAHAL.' Mahal is a Tagalog word with roots influenced by Arabic, reflecting precolonial trade and cultural exchange. It carries the dual meaning of both 'beloved' and 'valuable,' suggesting that what we love is inherently precious.

Mahal—meaning love, care, and value—feels especially urgent now. In a world shaped by loss, burnout, and widening inequities, Mahal invites us to reconsider what we protect, what we nurture, and what we hold dear beyond profit or prestige.

Artists are invited to explore Mahal as:

• An emotional and cultural practice

• A vision for how we care for one another and our city

• Mahal as a personal journey through your art
  
  
  

Eligibility

Who can apply:

San Francisco Bay Area Solo artists or teams of artists working in public art or mural-making.

Artists of any background are eligible to apply. However, the mural must incorporate at least 10 visual elements representing Filipino culture — such as colors of the Philippine flag, the sun and stars, local cultural landmarks, people, flora, or fauna.

Applicants do not need to submit a mural rendering at the time of application.

PROCESS

1. Applications reviewed by a panel of curated jurors

2. A shortlist of 6 artists/teams will be selected and asked to provide a high-fidelity draft of their proposed mural — each receives $1,000 for their design

3. Shortlisted designs will be critiqued at a public event and reviewed by a panel of jurors made up of artists, community members, and business owners

4. 2 artists/teams will be selected to produce murals

   
   

Production timeline: One mural begins production in September 2026. The other begins production in March 2027. Each mural is approximately 25'H x 22'W. Kultivate Labs will provide a lift and insurance. Artists are responsible for all supplies and production.

How to apply:

Fill out application here

For questions, email dre@kultivatelabs.org

*applications due no later than June 5, 2026 at 5 p.m.