Exciting Plans Unveiled for New Public Art Mural at Cal Johnson Recreation Center in Knoxville

KNOXVILLE, TENN. – Exciting Plans for New Public Art at Cal Johnson Recreation Center!

Knoxville is buzzing with artistic energy as the city looks to brighten up the Cal Johnson Recreation Center with a stunning new mural! This initiative is an amazing opportunity for artists from near and far to showcase their talents while also paying homage to the rich history of the area.

What’s the Big Idea?

So, here’s the scoop: the Knoxville Public Arts Committee is on the hunt for an artist or a group of artists who can create a vibrant, site-specific mural, measuring an impressive 45 feet wide and 12 feet tall. The idea is not just to slap some paint on the wall; they want a piece of art that truly reflects the historic nature of the building and the surrounding neighborhood.

A Little Background

Now, let’s dive a bit deeper into the location. The Cal Johnson Recreation Center, built in 1957, is located at 507 South Hall of Fame Drive. This isn’t just any old building; it’s named after Caldonia Fackler Johnson, a former slave who rose to become a successful businessman and Knoxville’s first Black billionaire. His legacy is an essential part of Knoxville’s history, and the mural is expected to resonate with that heritage.

How Much Will It Cost?

Artists, listen up! The budget for this project is set at $25,000, which is a great sum for a public art piece. The committee encourages all artists to apply, but they are particularly eager to spotlight local talent. If you’re an artist in Knoxville, this is your chance to shine!

What’s Required?

Here’s where it gets a bit tricky: if you have artwork that has been previously exhibited elsewhere, you won’t be eligible for this project. The committee is looking specifically for fresh, original works that fit the fabric of the Cal Johnson Recreation Center and its rich history. They want to see how local culture and creativity can intertwine in a new and exciting way!

Mark Your Calendars!

Want to get involved? Make sure to mark November 15 at 4:30 p.m. on your calendar. This is the submission deadline for artists to send in their qualifications. Those interested can find all the necessary details, requirements, and application forms in the official Request For Qualifications.

Need Some Help?

If you’re feeling a bit lost on how to put together your submission, don’t fret! There’s going to be a Technical Assistance Zoom workshop on October 28 at 6 p.m. This is a fantastic opportunity to get your questions answered and gain insights into the submission process. You can RSVP by emailing info@knoxalliance.com.

Looking Ahead

The hope is to complete the mural by Spring 2025, with the work transforming the recreation center into a vibrant community gathering spot. This mural isn’t just about art; it’s about bringing people together, celebrating history, and fostering community spirit.

So, Knoxville artists, don’t miss out on this chance to leave your mark on the city’s landscape! Let’s bring some color and creativity to the Cal Johnson Recreation Center and showcase the incredible talent that this community has to offer!