West Side Market Commissions Public Mural as Part of Transformation
Cleveland Public Market Corporation (CPMC) and Destination Cleveland are putting out a call for artist submissions for a public mural that will cover the Market’s new utility yard structure immediately north of West Side Market’s historic arcades. The proposed area of the mural is 8’ 8” tall and covers 1,385 square feet across three different wall facings on the new structure.
“We are excited about the opportunity to connect the Market’s renovation and transformation with a public art statement that embodies the spirit of the Market within the City of Cleveland,” says Rosemary Mudry, Executive Director of CPMC. “It fully embodies our goals for the Market’s future to see the creation of a structure that houses key infrastructure systems that will help the Market thrive in the 21st century, and to use that structure as a palette for beauty and inspiration.”
“West Side Market tells the story of Cleveland – a city built on hard work, rich traditions, vibrant neighborhoods and people who take pride in what they do,” says Hannah Belsito, Chief Experience Officer at Destination Cleveland. “As the Market continues to evolve, we’re excited to help bring another expression of Cleveland’s creativity to this iconic space. This mural will celebrate the city’s identity while giving locals and visitors another reason to explore this beloved Cleveland landmark.”
The first phase of the project is a call for portfolios, which will be reviewed by a committee representing CPMC, Destination Cleveland, the City of Cleveland, and other key stakeholders. At the end of the portfolio review process, the committee will recommend up to three artists to submit a full design proposal. Application and portfolios must be submitted to cpmc@westsidemarket.org by close of business on December 18, 2026. The total commission for the selected artist is $20,000.
Installation of the final design will take place in summer of 2027. The final work will cover 102 linear feet of the south side of the utility structure, facing the Market’s North Arcade, which will become a prepared food hall focusing on local, independent businesses and expanded seating. Additionally, the mural will cover 16 linear feet of the structure’s north side and 42 feet on its east side, facing the Market parking lots through which most visitors enter.
“In many ways, this will be our new way of welcoming visitors to the Market,” says Mudry. “Whether you’re here for your weekly shop or you’re a first-time visitor from out-of-town, your Market experience includes with this powerful visual that says ‘you’ve come to the right place.’”
Read the full Call for Artists: