The City of Petaluma, in collaboration with the Petaluma Public Art Committee, are inviting applications from California-based artists to create a new mural at the as-yet-unconstructed Lucchesi Skatepark, which is set to be built next year at Petaluma’s Lucchesi Park, near Novak Drive.

With roughly 335 square feet of vertical wall space within the planned 23,000-square-foot skatepark, there will be plenty of space on which artists can create something lasting and unique. The project is being funded, not by residential taxpayer monies, but through the City’s 1% “public art” fee, taken in-lieu of commercial builder’s requirement to spend as much on public art when building a new commercial property in town.

The Lucchesi Skatepark commission advances the goals of the Petaluma Public Art Master Plan.

“The City is seeking energetic artwork that celebrates skate culture, brings a sense of movement and fun, and can stand up to the demands of a highly visible public setting,” states the official invitation from the City of Petaluma.

The artist or team or artists who are selected by the committee will be awarded $13,000 for the project, money expected to cover the costs of design, materials, fabrication, installation, insurance, permits, travel, anti-graffiti coating and all required project documentation.

“The finished mural will be a standout feature of Petaluma’s much-anticipated new skatepark,” states the invitation.

The deadline for applications is Jan. 31, 2026, after which the committee will make a selection as swiftly as possible.“City staff will first confirm eligibility and completeness, and then the PPAC will evaluate proposals based on artistic excellence, creativity, site suitability, durability, technical feasibility, plans for community engagement, and the artist’s ability to meet the project timeline,” explained Melissa Abercrombie, the public art specialist for the City of Petaluma. “Each proposal must include at least one community engagement activity to connect the artwork with the people who will enjoy it.”

To apply, artists are required to submit a conceptual design with a full-color rendering of what the skatepark wall will look like, along with a letter of interest, an artist statement, a resume, three to five samples of original non-AI artwork, plus two references. The opportunity is open to California-based artists ages 16 and older. Prior public art experience is welcome but not required.

Applications are due no later than 5 p.m. on Jan. 31.

More information about the Request for Proposals and application materials is available at CityofPetaluma.org.