Call for Artists

70 Degrees
2 hours ago
3 min read

Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center Mural: Retaining Wall at the Terminus of Scenic Drive

Dana Point Headlands | Approx. 1,000 sq. ft.Budget: $65,000

The City of Dana Point invites professional artists and artist teams to submit proposals for an outdoor mural to be installed on the retaining wall adjacent to the Dana Point Nature Interpretive Center (NIC), located at the terminus of Scenic Drive in the Dana Point Headlands.

Perched above the bluffs of the Dana Point State Marine Conservation Area, the NIC serves as the primary gateway to the Headlands trail system and features existing exhibits that honor the history and culture of the Acjachemen Nation, Juaneño Band of Mission Indians, the original stewards of this land.

The project site offers approximately 1,000 square feet of mural space along the cul-de-sac and is highly visible to pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. This mural will act as a landmark cultural installation—one that complements, rather than overshadows, the surrounding scenic preserve while honoring the enduring presence and living legacy of the Acjachemen people.

Project Goals & Objectives

The City is seeking a subtle, nature-integrated artwork that enhances the arrival experience at the Nature Interpretive Center and reflects the values of environmental education, conservation, and cultural respect.

Artists are encouraged to propose designs that:

Honor the Acjachemen Nation and their deep connection to the land and sea
Use muted, natural tones and organic forms that blend seamlessly with the coastal sage scrub environment
Prioritize symbolism over literal imagery
Reflect coastal colors, textures, and native elements
Convey a sense of quiet presence, continuity, and reverence

Thoughtful research and engagement with Tribal community members are strongly encouraged. Potential themes may include traditional practices, the significance of the Dana Point Headlands, and native plants and wildlife, expressed in a respectful and culturally sensitive manner.

Artist Eligibility

Open to artists or artist teams who live in Dana Point or the surrounding area
The City will not provide travel or lodging costs
Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to researching and understanding the history, living culture, and contemporary presence of the Acjachemen people and their relationship to the Dana Point Headlands

Selection Panel

Artist selection will be reviewed by a panel consisting of representatives from:

City Manager’s Office
Community Services Team
Dana Point Arts & Culture Ambassadors
Tribal Community Representatives

The panel’s recommendation will be presented to City Council for final approval.

Tribal Engagement

The City of Dana Point is committed to the respectful and collaborative representation of Acjachemen culture.

Artists are encouraged to engage with established Tribal community contacts
Where appropriate, the City may help facilitate introductions
Proposals should clearly describe the applicant’s approach to research and community engagement

Evaluation Criteria

Artists or artist teams will be evaluated based on:

Artistic merit and originality of the proposed design
Authenticity, cultural sensitivity, and depth of research into Acjachemen history
Appropriateness for the site, including scale, content, materials, and color
Experience with murals or large-scale public art projects
Demonstrated or proposed community and Tribal engagement
Alignment with the project goals and objectives
Artist qualifications and statement

Anticipated Schedule

Submittal Deadline: June 30, 2026
Submittal Evaluation: August 31, 2026
Contract Award: September 15, 2026
Project Start: October 1, 2026
Project Completion: December 31, 2026

Submission Guidelines

A preliminary concept drawing and brief narrative conveying artistic intent, color pallette, cultural research process, and proposed community engagement approach
Concept designs must be proportional to wall dimensions to be considered
Contact information; resume and artist statement are encouraged
Description of your research into Acjachemen history and any Tribal contacts or consultation conducted
Examples of other relevant works and/or reviews (max 5 images)
Submissions should be created by the artist and not generated by Artificial Intelligence