What: Murals and interactive art installations for Des Moines Children’s Museum
This is for the upper floor only, a second call for artists will take place in late summer or early fall for the lower level.

Where: 1200 12th Street, West Des Moines

When: Application Deadline: Monday, July 27, 2026
Installation by the end of February 2027
Renovations on the upper floor should be 100% complete in November of 2026. All installations can begin in December at the latest. Some areas may be ready much sooner; the schedule is flexible and we can work with individual artists on timing.

Overall Vision:
A collaborative effort by local artists to fill the new Children’s Museum with vibrant, engaging artwork that inspires creativity and celebrates our community. Additional details on themes, locations, and dimensions are included in the attached documents.
Budget: We recognize the value of artists’ time, talent, and materials and intend to compensate selected artists for their work. Because project sizes and approaches may vary significantly, artists are asked to submit a proposed budget based on their concept and anticipated costs. Proposed budgets will be considered as part of the selection process.

Open House: If you would like to see the building and talk in person, you can come for a tour and talk about your ideas at these times:
Monday, June 29, 10am-3pm
Saturday, July 11, 10am-3pm
Wednesday, July 15, 4pm- 8pm

Contact Laura Johnson to schedule tours outside these times

Notification Timeline: Selected artists will be notified by July 31, 2026