ALLENOTOWN, Pa. — Attention all artists: The Lehigh Valley Arts and Cultural Alliance is holding an open call for two new projects based in Center City.
The projects, part of the neighborhood's revitalization,include a mural near the Da Vinci Science Center and funding for independent artists and arts/cultural organizations.
Experienced muralists can apply for a new mural in the Spiral Deck parking garage, 836 Linden St.
Painting the empty space — an estimated 5,000 square feet — is a project of Lehigh Valley Arts and Cultural Alliance, or LVACA, Allentown Economic Development Corp, Allentown Mural Arts, Allentown Parking Authority, DLP Capital and the state.
The new mural will be opposite a recently completed project by Carla Majczan on the northwest corner of the Da Vinci Science Center, 815 Hamilton St.
Applications are encouraged to suggest themes of creativity and innovation.
Submissions are due by Jan. 13.
More information can be found at www.lvaca.org/community/opencall-apa
Funding for individuals, arts organizations
In addition, LVACA is seeking seeks new, local artists and arts/cultural organizations to apply for funding for community-focused projects.
According to LVACA, grants of $500 to $2,500 will be awarded.
The organization will accept proposals in creative means such as visual arts, performance, music, literature, audio and video recording, dancing and movement.
Applicants must reside or be based in the Lehigh Valley and organizations must operate with an annual budget of less than $200,000.
The grant money is designated for projects that benefit residents within the downtown Allentown Neighborhood Improvement Zone, or NIZ, area.
The area is a special taxing district that covers 128 acres in Center City — bounded by 12th Street on the west to Seventh Street on the east to Gordon Street on the north and Linden Street on the south.
Projects also must be new or significantly reimagined, involve community participation, encourage engagement from people with disabilities or underrepresented groups and align with LVACA's mission and benefit residents of the NIZ area.
The deadline to apply is Jan. 31.
Grantees will be notified on Feb. 15 and projects need to be completed by Aug. 31.
A final report is due on Sept. 15.
More information can be found at www.lvaca.org/community/opencall-projectgrants.
