Call for Artists: Holyoke Storefront Art Project

Spring/Summer 2025 | High Street, Holyoke MA

Holyoke Art invites local visual artists to participate in a unique public art project that transforms vacant storefronts on High Street into vibrant art displays.

This initiative brings new energy to downtown Holyoke by filling empty storefronts with high-quality reproductions of local artwork—creating a walkable gallery experience for residents and visitors alike.

What Holyoke Art Is Looking For

Holyoke Art seeks proposals from visual artists to submit up to 3 original works (existing or newly created) for reproduction on banners installed in downtown storefront windows for a minimum of 6 months.

Accepted mediums include:

  • Paintings

  • Photography

  • Drawings

  • High-resolution images of sculptures or glasswork

  • Fiber art or felt work

  • Any handcrafted artwork suitable for reproduction

Please note: Original artwork will not be displayed. Holyoke Art will print selected works as high-quality banners and handle installation.

Project Details

  • Proposal Deadline: April 28, 2025

  • Banner Dimensions: Most will range between 2 to 5 feet wide and approximately 4 feet tall, depending on storefront layout

  • Public-Friendly Content: Artwork must be suitable for all audiences, including children—no explicit content

  • Viewer Engagement: Proposals should demonstrate a strong visual and conceptual connection with the public, both day and night

Artist Benefits

  • $500 honorarium for each selected artist

  • Artist’s name clearly displayed on banner signage

  • Inclusion in a citywide publicity campaign coordinated by Holyoke Art

  • Option to sell original work or prints at the ARTery Marketplace

    • Artists retain 70% of sales

    • Holyoke Art retains 30%

Selection Criteria

Proposals will be reviewed by a selection panel. The process is competitive and will emphasize a diversity of offerings. Selection will be based on:

  • Strong visual engagement with passers-by

  • Artistic excellence

  • Community impact

  • Preference given to artists from Holyoke or those with ties to the city

Holyoke Art places high priority on artwork that goes beyond decoration—submissions should aim to inspire connection, curiosity, and conversation.

Timeline

  • Proposals Due: April 28, 2025

  • Notification of Selection: May 15, 2025

  • Installation Window: June 1–14, 2025

  • Banner Display Duration: At least 6 months

How to Apply

Submit your proposal using the form below:
Apply Here
Deadline: April 28, 2025

For questions or more information, contact:
Kathy McKean
Executive Director, Holyoke Art
Kathy@holyokeart.com
413-420-8303 ext 1

Be part of the transformation—share your vision, showcase your work, and help bring new life to High Street in downtown Holyoke.
Apply now and be part of the Holyoke Storefront Art Project.