RFP: SoMa Interactive Mural Project
Request for Proposals (RFP)
SoMa Interactive Mural Project
Issued by: SoMa 501 Little Rock, Inc.
Project Title: Interactive Public Mural
Location: 13th Street between Main and the alley (facing south), Little Rock, AR
Proposal Deadline: 10/7/25 at 12:00PM CST
Overview
SoMa 501, in partnership with the Division of Arkansas Heritage’s Public Art Grant Program, seeks proposals from talented artists to create an interactive public mural. The mural should represent the spirit, history, and character of SoMa. It should invite public interaction and photography, serving as both an artistic landmark and a community storytelling piece that enhances the cultural vibrancy of South Main Street.
Project Scope
Theme: A mural that highlights the neighborhood’s history, culture, and spirit.
Design Requirements:
Must be interactive in nature, encouraging visitors to pose with or within the mural.
Should reflect the district’s characteristics, including creativity, diversity, inclusivity, and history.
Must use durable outdoor mural materials, resistant to weathering and graffiti.
Incorporation of bold color, texture, or dimension is encouraged to maximize visibility and impact.
Budget
A project budget of $10,000 will cover artist fees, materials, travel expenses, and installation costs.
Timeline
The mural must be completed by an agreed-upon date, no later than 6/1/26.
Eligibility
Open to artists with experience in public mural projects.
Artists must demonstrate the ability to complete the project within the specified timeline and budget.
Previous experience in community-centric or interactive art projects is preferred.
Proposal Requirements
Interested artists should submit the following by 10/7/25 at 12:00PM CST:
Artist Statement: Introduction and explanation of interest in the project.
Design Concept: A sketch/rendering with description of how the design reflects SoMa and incorporates interactivity.
Portfolio: Up to five examples of past mural or public art projects.
Timeline: Proposed schedule for preparation, painting, and completion.
Budget: Itemized budget including artist fees, materials, and related expenses.
References: Contact information for at least two references familiar with the artist’s work.
Selection Criteria
Artistic Merit: Creativity and quality of the design.
Interactivity: Ability to engage the community and encourage photography.
Feasibility: Ability to complete on time and within budget.
Experience: Track record with public art and mural projects.
Community Impact: Contribution to SoMa’s cultural and visual landscape.
Submission Instructions
Submit proposals electronically in PDF format to soma@somalittlerock.com.
Questions: Contact Elizabeth Michael at soma@somalittlerock.com.
Deadline: 10/7/25 at 12:00PM CST.
Important Dates
Proposal Deadline: 10/7/25
Selection Announcement: Upon receiving Arkansas Heritage grant
Project Start Date: Upon receiving Arkansas Heritage grant
Completion Deadline: 6/1/26
Compensation
The selected artist will receive compensation within the $10,000 budget, covering time, materials, and expenses. Payment will be made in installments, with details finalized in contract negotiations.
Rights and Usage
The completed mural will become the property of SoMa 501 and may be used in promotional materials. The artist will be credited in all relevant media.
Additional Information
SoMa 501 reserves the right to modify, extend, or cancel this RFP at any time. Submission does not guarantee selection.
We look forward to seeing your creative vision for SoMa!
