New Mural Grant Program aims to beautify West Columbia and promote local artists

The City of West Columbia introduced the West Columbia Mural Grant (WCMG) Program, an initiative to transform public spaces through vibrant, outdoor murals. The program invites local businesses and property owners to collaborate with artists to beautify the community, foster a deeper sense of place, and showcase West Columbia’s unique charm.

The WCMG Program provides grants to assist property owners and business tenants in covering the costs of designing and painting murals that reflect the City’s guidelines. The goal is to enrich the City’s visual landscape with colorful, community-centered artwork, creating a welcoming environment for residents and visitors.

As part of this initiative, the City is conducting a Call for Artist Qualifications – Mural Artists, encouraging skilled artists to contribute to the citywide art project. Artists will have the opportunity to create murals of various sizes on commercial buildings across West Columbia. Once completed, the murals will become the property of the City. Artists should consider the following guidelines when designing their murals:

• Ensure the design is suitable for public spaces.
• Use materials that require minimal maintenance and can withstand seasonal weather conditions.
• Artists are responsible for preparing the wall surface before painting.
• Finalist artists will be selected and contacted as mural opportunities arise.
• Muralists will have 30 days to complete their work.

West Columbia Mayor Tem Miles expressed his enthusiasm for the program, stating, “Art has the power to transform spaces and bring communities together. Our Mural Grant Program reflects West Columbia’s commitment to cultural growth and urban revitalization. We are eager to see how this initiative will inspire creativity and community pride.”

Program Details:

• Eligibility: Open to commercial property owners and tenants in West Columbia
• Funding: Grants will cover the costs of mural design and painting
• Design Guidelines: Murals must meet local standards and reflect the community’s culture and values

For more information or to apply, visit the Grant Programs Page at westcolumbiasc.gov/grant-programs.

The WCMG Program is part of the City’s broader effort to revitalize West Columbia, enhancing its appeal as a vibrant and attractive place to live, work, and visit.