NEWSLETTER
Dutchess County, NY: In a collaborative effort between Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Destination Dutchess (formerly known as Dutchess Tourism), and Arts Mid-Hudson, artists are invited to submit proposals for a commissioned mural to be installed at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in 2025. This exciting opportunity calls on artists to creatively respond to the theme: How does agriculture unite us?
Rooted in Dutchess County's rich agricultural traditions, the mural will celebrate the vibrant agritourism experiences that define the region — from family farms and local orchards to wineries, breweries, domestic and fine arts, and the natural beauty of our horticulture. The finished mural will also highlight the unique experiences visitors enjoy at the Fairgrounds, such as festivals, flower shows, animal interactions, u-pick activities, and farm stand shopping.
Artists are welcome to submit independent or collaborative proposals. The selected proposal will be awarded a total commission of $7,000, which covers artist fees, materials, and all project-related expenses.
About the Mural Project
Theme: How does agriculture unite us?
Site: Welcome Center at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds (indoor wall)
Size: 15’4” wide by 6’8” high
Medium: Painted on canvas, mounted on-site
Payment: $7,000 (split into two payments)
Deadline to Apply: Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 11:59 PM via Submittable
The mural will be mounted in the highly trafficked Welcome Center, serving as the main entrance for all fairground events. Interested artists are encouraged to visit the site during open hours, Monday through Friday, 9 AM – 3 PM, by appointment through Arts Mid-Hudson.
Artist Selection & Timeline
Application Deadline: Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 11:59 PM
Notification of Selection: May 2025
Mural Completion & Installation: By July 25, 2025
Public Unveiling: August 2025, including a ribbon-cutting ceremony and reception
Artists will be required to submit mural design renderings, up to 7 images, a resume, and 2 professional references. Sample images of past mural work are also strongly encouraged.
The final selection will be made by a jury composed of representatives from Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Destination Dutchess, Arts Mid-Hudson, and local artists.
Security and liability insurance will be provided by the Dutchess County Fairgrounds. The selected artist will also be asked to provide a maintenance guide to ensure the mural’s longevity.
About the Partners
Arts Mid-Hudson is the region’s leading nonprofit arts service organization dedicated to supporting artists and cultural organizations in Dutchess County and across the Mid-Hudson Valley. Since 1964, Arts Mid-Hudson has worked to foster a vibrant arts community through funding, education, and advocacy.
Destination Dutchess is the official destination marketing and management organization for Dutchess County, promoting the area as a dynamic place to visit, live, work, and invest. Learn https://destinationdutchess.com/.
The Dutchess County Fairgrounds and the Dutchess County Agricultural Society are dedicated to celebrating and preserving the region’s rural and agricultural heritage through education, events, and community engagement.
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CONTACT: info@artsmidhudson.org | 845-454-3222