Mural Grant Program

Murals Enhance Downtown Beauty and Deter Graffiti

Transforming blank walls into vibrant canvases, Portland Downtown’s Mural Grant Program plays a vital role in enriching the cultural fabric of our city. By supporting outdoor murals within the City of Portland’s Downtown Improvement District, we aim to enhance the quality of place and deter graffiti while celebrating artistic expression.

Benefits of the Program:

Through our Mural Grant Program, selected property owners receive comprehensive support:

Funding: We provide up to 100% of project costs, ensuring financial accessibility for participants.
Permitting Assistance: Navigating city permits can be complex; we streamline the process for smooth project execution.
Artist Collaboration: We facilitate artist selection through a call for artists, ensuring a perfect match for your vision.
Artistic Guidance: Our team works closely with property owners and artists from concept to completion, ensuring satisfaction with the final mural design and outcome.

Who can apply?

Property owners within the City of Portland’s Downtown Improvement District are eligible to apply. Your outdoor canvas within the downtown area can become a showcase for creativity and community pride. Historic Preservation guidelines may apply, and our dedicated staff are available to provide guidance throughout the application process.

Apply Here Today!

Detailed guidelines are available below. For inquiries or to begin your application, contact us at info@portlandmaine.com

Submit Your Materials:

Applications should be mailed or emailed to:

Cary Tyson, Executive Director
Portland Downtown
P.O. Box 8593
Portland, ME 04104
Email: cary@portlandmaine.com

Portland Downtown Mural Grant Program – Guidelines

Mechanics Hall Alley

Where History & Creative Innovation Collide

Longfellow Square

Cultural Gem in Portland’s Arts District

Located at the edge of downtown Portland, Maine, Longfellow Square proudly resides within the vibrant Arts District. This square honors American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow with a prominent monument, surrounded by historic brick buildings and bustling streets.

Longfellow Square buzzes with activity, serving as a dynamic hub for artistic expression and community engagement. Adjacent to the square is One Longfellow Square, a cherished performing arts venue that enriches the cultural fabric of the area.

A dedicated busker stage invites local artists to showcase their talents, bringing live performances that captivate visitors and residents alike. Yellow picnic tables adorned with musical notes from Neil Diamond’s “Longfellow’s Serenade” pay homage to the area’s musical heritage, providing spots for relaxation and impromptu musical moments.

Surrounded by cultural landmarks like the Maine College of Art & Design and the Wadsworth-Longfellow House, Longfellow Square embodies Portland’s rich heritage and vibrant arts scene. It serves as a tranquil spot where artists gather for inspiration before or after attending performances, fostering a sense of community and creativity.

Explore Longfellow Square and discover its blend of art, music, and community, offering an enriching experience immersed in Portland’s cultural tapestry.
Activating Spring Through Fall

Lobsterman Park

Where Art and Entertainment Meet

Welcome to Lobsterman Park, nestled at the corner of Union and Middle Streets in Downtown Portland. This hidden gem offers more than just a serene green space—it’s a cultural hub surrounded by vibrant attractions.

Adjacent to Lobsterman Park, you’ll find downtown’s exclusive movie theater, the Nickelodeon, perfect for catching a film after a relaxing afternoon in the park. Nearby, explore lesser-known art sculptures and statues that add charm to the neighborhood. For shopping enthusiasts, Free Street is just a short walk away, boasting excellent shops and two acclaimed James Beard-nominated restaurants for unforgettable dining experiences.

Don’t miss the nearby Cross Insurance Arena, a renowned venue hosting events year-round, including games of the Maine Mariners hockey team. At Lobsterman Park itself, enjoy live performances on the dedicated busker stage, adding a lively soundtrack to your visit. Admire the striking statue that pays homage to the area’s working waterfront history, or relax in the natural semi-circle amphitheater, perfect for enjoying music and community gatherings.

Lobsterman Park invites you to immerse yourself in the cultural richness and entertainment that Downtown Portland has to offer.

Monument Square

The Heartbeat of Downtown

Monument Square, with its light bay-inspired blue accents that beautifully complement the historic brick surroundings, is the vibrant heart of Downtown Portland. Located off Congress Street, this prominent community plaza features the iconic “Our Lady of Victories” monument. As a central gathering place, Monument Square offers ample seating and lush floral displays, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors.

Collaborating with the City of Portland Parks and Rec Department, planters have been added to enhance the greenery and color of the area. Additional seating options, including picnic tables, provide perfect spots to relax. Every Friday afternoon, Monument Square comes alive with a weekly summer market featuring local Maine makers, crafters, and farmers.

Positioned at the crossroads of Downtown Portland’s Arts and Government districts, Monument Square is surrounded by cultural and historical landmarks. Nearby, you’ll find the Maine College of Art & Design, the Maine Historical Society, the Wadsworth-Longfellow House, and the

Portland Public Library, Historic City Hall, Merrill Auditorium, and the Courthouse add to the area’s rich heritage. Whether you’re looking for a variety of lunch spots during the day or game-themed venues for nighttime fun, Monument Square is the place to be.

Activating Spring Through Fall

Milk Street

Your Family-Friendly Rainbow Retreat

Welcome to Milk Street, a lively and colorful space nestled between Lower Exchange Street and Market Streets. With a rainbow-hued color scheme, Milk Street creates a welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere perfect for lunch, coffee breaks, and soaking up the sunshine. Brightly painted picnic tables and vibrant flags set the scene, while free lawn games like a giant Connect 4 and corn hole add a playful touch. This season we’re introducing a new kids’ play area, making it an ideal spot for families and friends to relax and have fun. Nearby attractions include the Portland Gallery, artisan shops, and a charming dolphin statue!

Activating Spring Through Fall

Dana Street

Your Coastal-Inspired Oasis

Welcome to Dana Street, a serene retreat just off bustling Commercial Street, intersecting with the famous Wharf Street. Bathed in coastal-inspired shades of blue, Dana Street offers a delightful respite for those exploring Downtown Portland. It’s the perfect spot to sit, eat, and unwind, whether you’re taking a break from shopping or enjoying a late night out.

Brightly painted picnic tables and Adirondack chairs provide vibrant seating options while you enjoy the refreshing Casco Bay breeze across the street. A short walk brings you to educational activities at the Gulf of Maine Research Institute (GMRI) and award-winning restaurants specializing in farm-to-table and sea-to-table cuisine. Plus, you’re in close proximity to Wharf Street’s lively late-night bars, making Dana Street the ideal location for both relaxation and excitement.

Activating Spring Through Fall

Downtown Art

Downtown Cadets

Love Notes

Park & Work

Winter City Lights

Become a Sponsor

Ready to make a meaningful impact in Portland’s vibrant downtown community? Becoming a sponsor with Portland Downtown is your chance to support local events, initiatives, and projects that enhance our environment and drive economic growth.

Why Sponsor with Us?

Boost Your Brand: Increase visibility and showcase your commitment to the community.
Connect Locally: Build relationships with local businesses, residents, and visitors.
Support Growth: Help fund projects that stimulate a thriving downtown environment.
Gain Recognition: Receive acknowledgment through our marketing channels, event promotions, and more.

Ready to Get Started?

Fill out the form below to express your interest in becoming a sponsor. Once submitted, a member of our team will get in touch with you to discuss available opportunities and how we can best align your support with our community needs.

Questions?

We’re here to help! If you have any questions or need more information, please contact us at sponsor@portlandmaine.com or call 207.772.6828.

Request a Downtown Directory

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Submit Your Business Information!

Are you a business in Portland’s downtown district looking to get involved and increase your visibility? Portland Downtown is here to help! We regularly host events and initiatives that spotlight local businesses, providing opportunities for engagement and promotion. By participating, you can offer exclusive deals, feature your business, and connect with locals and visitors alike.

Got questions or need more details? Contact us at info@portlandmaine.com.

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Vibrant Banner Collaboration: Portland Downtown Showcases MECA&D Student Art

Downtown Street Banners: Celebrating Art with MECA&D

Discover the vibrant new banners along Congress Street in downtown Portland, Maine—a collaborative art project in partnership with the Maine College of Art & Design (MECA&D). Created by talented local art students under the guidance of MECA&D professor Margo Halverson and the Portland Downtown marketing team, these banners bring color, creativity, and the unique charm of Portland’s culture to our streets.

Project Overview:

Students from MECA&D have passionately crafted a diverse array of designs that celebrate Portland’s rich history, landmarks, and community spirit. Each banner is a testament to the students’ creativity and dedication, offering a fresh perspective on our city’s identity.

Community Impact:

These banners now adorn Congress Street, adding a dynamic visual element that enhances our urban landscape. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, take a moment to enjoy these artistic expressions that contribute to the vibrant atmosphere of our city center.

Crosswalk Painting: Adding Color to Downtown

Portland Downtown, in collaboration with partners like the Equality Community Center and dedicated volunteers, embarks on an initiative to enhance downtown’s crosswalks with vibrant colors. This program, fully funded by Portland Downtown, aims to beautify our urban landscape and promote community pride through artistic expression.

Project Highlights

Throughout the downtown district, you can discover unique crosswalk art installations, such as the annual refreshing of rainbow crosswalks near Congress Street, timed perfectly for Portland’s local Pride Parade each June. These colorful intersections, created in collaboration with the Equality Community Center and with the City of Portland’s approval, celebrate inclusivity and creativity in our city center.

This year, our efforts extended to painting crosswalks near the waterfront on Commercial Street and by the Cross Insurance Arena on Center Street. Notably, the Center Street crosswalk was adorned in the official colors of the Maine Mariners, showing hometown pride for our local hockey team.

Acknowledgment

Portland Downtown extends gratitude to all volunteers and partners who contribute their time and effort to this project, from purchasing paint and supplies to lending a hand in the painting process. Together, we continue to make downtown Portland a vibrant and welcoming place for all.

Stay Connected

Stay tuned for more exciting crosswalk installations and events from Portland Downtown, dedicated to fostering a vibrant and inclusive urban experience. Join us in exploring the city’s creativity and celebrating diversity together.

Paint and Sit: An Outdoor Seating Project

In summer 2023, Portland Downtown proudly launched Paint and Sit, a vibrant initiative that brought local art directly into our downtown’s pop-up parks. Through this program, talented Maine artists transformed Adirondack chairs into stunning, one-of-a-kind artworks, enriching our urban landscape with color and creativity.

Program Highlights

Local artists from the Greater Portland area were selected to design and paint Adirondack chairs, creating inviting seating areas in our downtown parks.

Portland Downtown extends a heartfelt thank you to all the artists who contributed their talent and vision to this project. Their efforts not only have beautified our public spaces but also inspired our community to engage with art in everyday settings.

Acknowledgment

We extend our appreciation to the following Maine-based artists who participated in the Paint and Sit program:

Sierra Aceto – Portland – etsy.com/shop/otecacreatives
Zenab Bastawala – Portland – zenbast.com
Julia Rose Dry – South Paris
Kathleen Gerdes – Falmouth
Alfonso Gobea – Windham
Kelsey Grass – Portland
Alannis W Minnerly – instagram.com/artbyalannis
Jillian Oliver – Cumberland – gertco.com
Brenda S. – Portland – The Art Department
Paige Speight – Portland – paigespeight.com
Abigail Sprague – Portland
Jess Yeomans – South Portland – jessyeomans.com

Your contributions have made a lasting impact on Portland’s downtown experience. We look forward to continuing to showcase local creativity through future initiatives.

Painting Outside the Box: The Utility Box Art Project

In summer 2023, Portland Downtown launched Painting Outside the Box, a transformative initiative aimed at integrating art into our urban landscape by beautifying public utility boxes throughout downtown Portland. This project not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of our streets but also fosters civic engagement and supports the vibrant local arts community.

Project Overview

Local Maine artists were invited to submit designs for painting City of Portland utility boxes with original artworks. Selected by a panel of experts, these artists brought creativity and skill to each utility box, turning functional urban elements into colorful landmarks that reflect Portland’s artistic spirit.

Acknowledgment

Portland Downtown extends sincere thanks to the talented artists who contributed their time and creativity to the Painting Outside the Box project. Your dedication has enriched our cityscape and inspired residents and visitors alike.

Recognition

We proudly acknowledge the following Maine-based artists who participated in the Painting Outside the Box project:

Hope Dren – hopedrenstudios.org/about
Bailey DeBiase – Portland – baileydebiase.com
Steven Gendron – Portland – instagram.com/crookedstreetart
Liz Long – Portland – lizlongart.com
Lin Snow – Winthrop – LinSnowArt.com
Paige Speight – Portland – paigespeight.com

Your contributions have made a lasting impact on Portland’s downtown environment. Portland Downtown looks forward to continuing to showcase the diversity and talent of our local arts community through future initiatives.

Downtown Blog

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Congress Square Reconstruction Work Begins October 6

Portland Seeks a Tree to Light Up Monument Square this Winter

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Join our Board of Directors: Nominations Open now through April 15

Mark Your Calendar for Jane’s Walk ME – Saturday, May 3!

Join Portland Buy Local for a morning of learning and networking

Downtown Art

Downtown Cadets

Love Notes

Park & Work

Winter City Lights

Downtown Blog

Mural Grant Program

Murals Enhance Downtown Beauty and Deter Graffiti

Benefits of the Program:

Who can apply?

Mechanics Hall Alley

Where History & Creative Innovation Collide

Longfellow Square

Cultural Gem in Portland’s Arts District

Lobsterman Park

Where Art and Entertainment Meet

Monument Square

The Heartbeat of Downtown

Milk Street

Your Family-Friendly Rainbow Retreat

Dana Street

Your Coastal-Inspired Oasis

Downtown Art

Downtown Cadets

Love Notes

Park & Work

Winter City Lights

Become a Sponsor

Why Sponsor with Us?

Ready to Get Started?

Request a Downtown Directory

Submit Your Business Information!

Vibrant Banner Collaboration: Portland Downtown Showcases MECA&D Student Art

Crosswalk Painting: Adding Color to Downtown

Project Highlights

Acknowledgment

Stay Connected

Paint and Sit: An Outdoor Seating Project

Program Highlights

Acknowledgment

Painting Outside the Box: The Utility Box Art Project

Project Overview

Acknowledgment

Recognition

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