This four‑week residency will support one artist in designing and creating permanent interior murals for the public restrooms at Mal Coombs Park in Shelter Cove, California. As the only public facilities in the area, these restrooms serve residents, visitors, hikers, surfers, and beachgoers year‑round—making this a highly visible and meaningful public art opportunity.
About the Residency
The selected artist will:
- Explore the natural and cultural stories of the King Range NCA
- Design and paint murals that celebrate place, foster stewardship, and reflect community identity
- Lead a collaborative, community‑driven process involving local residents and youth
- Create durable, welcoming murals appropriate for a public setting
This residency invites bold, imaginative approaches to interpreting public lands. Artists may explore ecological stories, human histories, and the deep connections between people and the landscapes of the Lost Coast.
Location
The King Range NCA encompasses 68,000 acres along 35 miles of California’s rugged “Lost Coast.” Shelter Cove – remote, scenic, and rich in community pride – will serve as the artist’s home base. Applicants should be comfortable working in a rural, isolated environment.
Residency Support
- Local housing for one artist for the full 4‑week residency
- $50/day reimbursement upon completion; mileage reimbursed at $0.14/mile, beginning after arrival
- Recognition through BLM and partner websites, press, and social media
- Optional gallery showing at the SCARF Gallery (Inn of the Lost Coast)
- All mural paint and materials provided
Artist Expectations
- Dedicate at least 75% of residency time to mural design and completion
- Reside in Shelter Cove for the duration of the residency
- Lead at least two community workshops or workdays
- Work independently, meet deadlines, and collaborate respectfully
- Provide personal transportation and personal/art supplies
Eligibility
Open to U.S.‑based artists age 18+ with experience or interest in murals, public art, environmental education, public lands, or community engagement.
Application Requirements
- Application/Cover Page
- Six artwork samples (JPEG, 300 dpi, ≤2 MB each)
- Image list with titles, media, dates, and details
- Professional resume
- One‑page residency proposal addressing:
- Mural concepts for Mal Coombs Park
- Interest in the residency and the King Range NCA
- Plans for community involvement (including youth)
- Ideas for interpreting the Lost Coast through art
Timeline
- Application Deadline: Friday, March 13, 2026
- Interviews: March 16–19, 2026
- Notification: March 23, 2026
- Residency Dates: April 20 – May 18, 2026
For questions or to request application materials, please contact: Sandy Miles Outdoor Recreation Planner, King Range NCA, BLM (707) 986‑5415 | smiles@blm.gov www.sheltercoveartsrecreation.com
We hope you’ll consider applying or share this opportunity with artists in your network. This project will leave a lasting creative legacy on the Lost Coast, and we’re excited to welcome an artist ready to help bring it to life.