Community Mural Project Call-for-Submissions

Overview 

The Great Divide Trail Association invites artists from the local community to submit artwork proposals for a vibrant public mural celebrating the iconic Great Divide Trail.  

The mural will be prominently displayed at 7702 18th Avenue in Coleman, Alberta, a significant location at the end of Section A of the trail.  

Coleman is a natural pause point for hikers—making it an ideal site for a mural that honours trail culture and history, connects with the community, and showcases local artistic talent. 
 
For more information on the GDTA: About the GDTA – The Great Divide Trail Association

Project Goals 

  • Celebrate the Great Divide Trail and its significance to the region. 
  • Create a welcoming photo spot and storytelling space for hikers and visitors. 
  • Create a vibrant and inclusive public art installation. 

Call-for-Submission Theme & Specs 

Artists are invited to submit new or previously created artworks inspired by the landscapes, wildlife, experiences, and cultural significance of the iconic Great Divide Trail. The artwork should:

  • Celebrate outdoor adventure, trail culture, and regional heritage. 
  • Offer compelling visual storytelling elements suitable for public appreciation and interaction. 
  • Showcase the beauty and iconic significance of the Great Divide Trail. 
  • This call-for-submission welcomes artists from all communities including Indigenous and underrepresented groups.

Artwork Specifications 

  • The selected artwork will be digitally reproduced on high-quality, durable, weatherproof 3M vinyl. This is not a hand painted mural project.
  • Selected submissions will include three (3) pieces in total: 
    • One (1), large piece: 8 ft x 12 ft  
    • Two (2), smaller pieces: 4 ft x 4 ft each 
    • Note: artists can submit artworks for one or all three 
  • High resolution photograph or digital image of artworks between 3000-3500 pixels (height or width) each. 
  • Brief written explanation of the artwork and its connection to the Great Divide Trail. Please ensure the uploaded files (image & written) are named to easily identify the artists piece and the written description. 
  • Submissions must be original to the artist and suitable for all audiences and ages. 
  • Please note, the wall will also include a dedicated area below the piece for QR codes linking visitors to GDTA resources and trail information. 
  • For location reference, please see the below photos. 

Mural Locations on Building 

Inspiration 

This project allows for creative expression of any medium, including paintings, photography, drawings/illustrations, etc. Below is just one example of a map project for the West Coast Trial that could serve as inspiration.  

Honorarium 

  • A $500 honorarium will be awarded to the selected artist.  

Submission Deadline 

All submissions must be received by July 1, 2025. 

Selection Process 

  • Artwork will be reviewed and selected by a community jury panel. 
  • Selection announcements will be made by June 29, 2025. 

Timeline 

  • Call-for-Submissions Issued: May 27, 2025 
  • Submission Deadline: July 1, 2025 
  • Artwork Selection: July 25, 2025 
  • Mural Printing & Installation: Completed by August 15, 2025 

Submit Proposals via our Mural Submissions Portal 

Additional Information 

Artists retain original artwork rights; GDTA will hold rights for mural reproduction and promotional use. 
The project is supported in partnership with the South Canadian Rockies Tourism Association (SCR), with promotional recognition provided across multiple platforms. 
We look forward to your creative interpretations celebrating the spirit and legacy of the Great Divide Trail! 

Questions? 

For inquiries about submissions or the project, please contact: 

Tara Fleming, Board Director 
Great Divide Trail Association 
mural@greatdividetrail.com 
www.greatdividetrail.com 

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