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Call For Submissions of Interest: Bike Shop Mural
Call to Artists: Submissions of Interest
Project: 1015 East Hastings Street
Commission: $11,000 + up to $1500 supply costs
Submission Deadline: September 10th, 2025
Project Overview
The Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society (VAFCS) is inviting design proposals from Indigenous artists for the creation of a custom mural to be featured on the interior walls of the bike shop. This public art mural should be site-specific and reflect the urban environment of each space and of our new supportive housing project building location at 1015 East Hastings Street.
Scope of Artwork
The proposed mural will be located in the bike repair shop, on the wall facing the entrance. The wall measures approximately 2.64 m wide by 5.80 m tall. Artists should be prepared to scale their designs to fit this large surface and consider the visual impact from various distances and sightlines.
The selected artist will be responsible for the full design and execution of the mural, including all preparatory work such as surface priming, outlining, and final painting. VAFCS will provide site access and support as needed.
Artists are encouraged to submit a concept sketch along with a written description of their vision, explaining how it reflects the themes and values of the Friendship Centre. Proposed designs should thoughtfully engage with themes central to the Friendship Centre—such as healing, resilience, community, and the cultural identity of the urban Indigenous population it serves. Proposals must also include examples of past mural work or other relevant projects that demonstrate the artist’s experience, technical skill, and artistic style.
The completed mural must be durable and created with high-quality exterior paints and protective coatings suitable for long-term installation.
We welcome proposals that are inclusive, accessible, and rooted in the lived experiences and cultures of Indigenous peoples living in urban Vancouver. This mural will serve as a permanent fixture of the site—welcoming visitors and residents, while honouring and celebrating the spirit of the community.
Submission Requirements
All muralists who are interested in this project will submit a Submission of Interest via email, which includes the following:
1. Concept Sketch and/or Statement: Provide a statement in the form of a sketch and/or written description (max 500 words) outlining your preliminary ideas, including aligning themes, and if possible, materials.
2. Portfolio or Samples of Past Work: Provide 4-6 samples of previous completed murals or artwork relevant to this project.
3. Artist Biography (Maximum 250 Words): Highlight your background, artistic journey, and connection to Indigenous communities.
4. Contact Information: Full name, email, phone number, and mailing address.
Housing Project Background
.The supportive transition housing project will be located in Vancouver, BC, on the unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. Named Ho’-kee-melh Kloshe Lum – meaning “to gather, good spirits” – this new Indigenous-focused housing project will provide nearly 170 homes and 80 shelter beds in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. It will also serve as a vibrant new hub for Indigenous art in the city, creating a unique opportunity for both established and emerging artists to have their work showcased. Through this call for art, we aim to reflect the spirit of the community, emphasizing themes of connection, identity, culture, and healing.
