Courtesy Photo

ALPENA – – The Alpena Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is looking for artists who are interested in painting vibrant murals in Downtown Alpena, Michigan this summer as part of the Fresh Waves project. Interested artists have until March 15 at midnight to submit their application to be considered to participate in the project this summer.

Downtown property owners are also able to apply to have a mural painted on their building. Those applications are due Feb. 15 at midnight.

Now in its eighth year, Fresh Waves is a public arts initiative that was created in 2019 to introduce vibrant, one-of-a-kind artwork to Downtown Alpena. There have been 29 pieces of artwork completed throughout the downtown district by artists from all over the country through the project. In 2025 Fresh Waves acquired 2 new murals painted by two different artists, both murals were painted 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. 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,” said DDA Administrative Assistant Savannah Peterson.

Artists interested in applying need to submit the following by Sunday, March 15, 2026 at midnight:

– Completed artist application form.

– Link to online portfolio or samples of previous work

– A reference from a past commission

– Up to three concepts of what would be painted (could be 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. Property owners within the DDA district are also encouraged to apply to have a mural painted on their building. Both applications can be viewed here: https://www.downtownalpenami.com/fresh-waves-mural-project.html

Those seeking more information about being a part of Fresh Waves should reach out to the DDA Office by calling 989-356-6422 or emailing anneg@alpena.mi.us