How to Join Mural Painting Workshops in Columbus

Mural painting is more than just applying paint to a wall—it’s a powerful form of public art that transforms urban spaces, tells community stories, and fosters collective creativity. In Columbus, Ohio, a city known for its vibrant arts scene and commitment to public expression, mural painting workshops have become a popular way for residents, artists, and newcomers to engage with local culture. Whether you’re a seasoned painter, a curious beginner, or someone looking to connect with like-minded creatives, joining a mural painting workshop in Columbus offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the city’s visual identity while developing your artistic skills.

These workshops are often organized by local arts nonprofits, community centers, universities, and independent collectives. They bring together people of all backgrounds to collaborate on large-scale artworks that reflect the values, history, and diversity of Columbus neighborhoods. Unlike traditional art classes, mural workshops emphasize teamwork, community input, and real-world impact. Participating in one can lead to lasting friendships, professional growth, and even public recognition for your work.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to help you find, apply for, and successfully participate in mural painting workshops in Columbus. You’ll learn how to identify legitimate opportunities, prepare effectively, collaborate meaningfully, and continue engaging with the city’s mural arts ecosystem long after your first project ends. By the end of this tutorial, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to become an active contributor to Columbus’s thriving mural culture.

Step-by-Step Guide

Research Local Organizations and Programs

The first step in joining a mural painting workshop in Columbus is identifying which organizations regularly host them. Start by compiling a list of institutions known for public art initiatives. Key players include the Columbus Arts Council, Indyke Art Studio, The Wexner Center for the Arts at Ohio State University, SPACES (a nonprofit dedicated to contemporary art), and Community RePaint, which partners with neighborhood associations on mural projects.

Visit each organization’s website and look for sections labeled “Community Programs,” “Public Art,” “Workshops,” or “Get Involved.” Many organizations post open calls for participants several months in advance. Sign up for their newsletters or follow their social media accounts—especially Instagram and Facebook—where workshop announcements are often shared first. For example, the Columbus Arts Council frequently posts updates about upcoming mural projects on their Instagram account @columbusartscouncil.

Understand Workshop Types and Requirements

Not all mural workshops are the same. Some are open to absolute beginners, while others require prior painting experience or even a portfolio submission. There are three main types to be aware of:

• Community-Driven Workshops: These are often free or low-cost and organized by neighborhood associations. They focus on themes like local history, cultural heritage, or social justice. No experience is required, but attendance and commitment are expected.
• Professional Development Workshops: Hosted by art schools or studios, these are more structured and may include instruction on mural techniques, paint mixing, scaling designs, and weather-resistant finishes. Some may charge a fee and require registration.
• Artist Residencies: These are competitive, longer-term opportunities (often 2–8 weeks) where selected artists lead or co-create a mural. They usually require a portfolio, artist statement, and interview.

Read the eligibility criteria carefully. Some workshops may ask for proof of residency in Columbus, while others welcome participants from surrounding areas. Age restrictions vary—some are for adults only, while others are family-friendly or youth-focused.

Prepare Your Application Materials

If the workshop requires an application, gather the necessary documents ahead of time. Even for informal workshops, having a simple personal statement or artistic interest letter can strengthen your candidacy. Here’s what to prepare:

• Personal Statement: Write 150–300 words explaining why you want to join. Mention any connection you have to Columbus, your interest in public art, or a cause you care about (e.g., environmental justice, racial equity, youth empowerment).
• Portfolio or Art Samples: If you have previous artwork—even sketches or school projects—take clear photos and compile them into a single PDF or Google Drive link. If you’re a complete beginner, include any creative work you’ve done: journal entries, handmade cards, digital designs, or even photos of your garden or home decor.
• Availability Calendar: Most workshops run over multiple weekends or evenings. List your open dates and times clearly. Consistency matters—organizers prefer participants who can commit to the full schedule.

Many organizations use online forms for applications. Use tools like Google Forms or Typeform to organize your responses neatly. Proofread everything before submitting. Typos or vague answers can reduce your chances of being selected.

Register and Confirm Your Spot

Once you submit your application, wait for confirmation. Response times vary—some organizations notify applicants within a week, while others take up to four weeks, especially for competitive residencies. If you haven’t heard back after two weeks, send a polite follow-up email. Example:

“Hi [Name], I recently applied for the [Workshop Name] and wanted to check on the status of my application. I’m very enthusiastic about contributing to Columbus’s public art scene and would greatly appreciate any updates. Thank you for your time and consideration.”

If accepted, you’ll receive instructions on orientation, materials, meeting locations, and safety protocols. Confirm your attendance in writing. Some workshops require a small deposit (often refundable) to secure your spot, while others may ask you to bring your own gloves or apron. Make note of these requirements and prepare accordingly.

Attend Orientation and Pre-Work Planning

Before the first painting day, most workshops include an orientation session. This is crucial. You’ll meet the lead artist, other participants, and community representatives. You’ll also learn about the mural’s theme, design, and symbolism. The design may already be finalized, or you may be invited to contribute ideas during this stage.

During orientation, take notes. Ask questions like:

• What is the story behind this mural’s design?
• Are there cultural elements or symbols I should be especially mindful of?
• How will the mural be maintained after completion?
• Will there be documentation (photos, videos) of the process?

Understanding the meaning behind the artwork helps you paint with intention. It transforms your role from a painter to a storyteller.

Prepare Physically and Logistically

Mural painting is physically demanding. You’ll be standing for hours, reaching overhead, climbing ladders, and working in varying weather conditions. Prepare your body and gear:

• Wear comfortable, old clothing you don’t mind getting paint on. Long sleeves and pants are recommended for sun and paint protection.
• Bring closed-toe shoes with good grip—concrete can be slippery, especially when wet.
• Use sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses if working outdoors. Bring a reusable water bottle.
• Carry a small toolkit: painter’s tape, a small brush for touch-ups, a rag, and a pencil.
• If you have allergies or sensitivities to paint fumes, bring a mask or respirator. Many workshops use low-VOC or water-based paints, but it’s better to be safe.

Plan your transportation. Many murals are painted on buildings in neighborhoods like the Short North, Franklinton, or the East Side. Use Google Maps to check parking or public transit options. Arrive early on the first day to get oriented and meet your team.

Engage Actively During the Workshop

On painting days, be present. Show up on time. Listen to instructions. Ask for clarification if you’re unsure how to use a tool or technique. Don’t be afraid to try—even if you’ve never painted a mural before.

Collaboration is key. Mural workshops thrive on group dynamics. If someone is struggling, offer help. If you have an idea for a color change or detail, share it respectfully. The lead artist will guide the overall vision, but community input often shapes the final piece.

Take breaks when needed. Hydrate. Use the restroom. Avoid overexertion. Safety and well-being are priorities for reputable workshops.

Document and Reflect

Ask if you can take photos of the process (with permission). Many organizations encourage participants to share their experience on social media using a specific hashtag—this helps promote the project and the organization. Tag the workshop host and use community-relevant hashtags like

ColumbusMurals or #PaintColumbus.

After the workshop ends, reflect on your experience. What did you learn? What surprised you? Did you connect with someone new? Write a short journal entry or record a voice memo. This reflection deepens your understanding and can be useful if you apply for future workshops or art grants.

Stay Involved After the Workshop

Participation doesn’t end when the paint dries. Many organizations host mural unveilings, community celebrations, or artist talks. Attend these events. They’re excellent opportunities to meet other artists, learn about upcoming projects, and even volunteer for maintenance or documentation work.

Consider joining a local art collective like Columbus Mural Collective or Artists for Social Change. These groups often organize monthly meetups, paint nights, and advocacy campaigns. Staying involved keeps you connected to the evolving mural scene in Columbus.

Best Practices

Respect the Community and the Message

Murals are not blank canvases—they are public statements. The design often emerges from conversations with local residents, elders, students, or activists. As a participant, your role is to honor that intent. Avoid imposing your personal style if it contradicts the theme. For example, if the mural celebrates Indigenous heritage, do not use stereotypical imagery or inappropriate color schemes. Research the cultural context beforehand.

Communicate Clearly and Openly

Group dynamics can be challenging. If you’re unsure about your role, ask. If you disagree with a design choice, voice your concern respectfully and offer alternatives. Use “I” statements: “I’m concerned this symbol might be misinterpreted because…” instead of “That’s wrong.” Constructive dialogue strengthens the final product.

Be Punctual and Reliable

Organizers rely on committed participants. Missing a session can delay the entire project and frustrate others. If you know you’ll be late or absent, notify the lead artist as soon as possible. Consistency builds trust—and trust leads to future opportunities.

Learn Basic Techniques Beforehand

While workshops teach you on-site, knowing a few fundamentals can boost your confidence:

• How to prime a surface with gesso or wall primer
• How to use projectors or grid systems to scale designs
• Basic brush control and paint layering
• How to clean brushes properly

YouTube has excellent free tutorials. Search “mural painting basics for beginners” or “how to use a projector for murals.” Spend 30 minutes watching before your first session. You’ll feel more prepared and contribute more effectively.

Protect the Environment

Always dispose of paint rags, containers, and brushes properly. Many workshops use eco-friendly paints, but waste still needs responsible handling. Ask where to dispose of materials. Never pour paint down drains. Use designated drop-off sites for hazardous waste.

Document Your Growth

Keep a visual journal of your mural journey. Take photos of your hands holding a brush, your first stroke on the wall, the finished mural from different angles. These images become a personal portfolio. They’re invaluable if you later apply for art school, grants, or freelance mural commissions.

Give Back to the Community

After your workshop, consider volunteering to help with mural maintenance. Over time, murals fade or get tagged. Many organizations need people to help with touch-ups. This keeps your connection alive and shows your dedication to public art.

Tools and Resources

Essential Tools for Mural Painting

Most workshops provide the major equipment—ladders, scaffolding, paint, brushes—but having your own basic tools makes you more self-sufficient:

• Paint Brushes: A set including flat brushes (1”–3”), round brushes (

  4–#10), and a detail brush.

• Paint Rollers and Trays: For large background areas. Choose low-nap rollers for smooth walls.
• Painter’s Tape: For clean edges. Use blue tape for delicate surfaces.
• Projector or Grid Tool: Some workshops use digital projectors to transfer designs. If you’re leading a project later, a simple grid method works too.
• Apron or Old Clothing: Protect your skin and clothes from paint.
• Gloves: Nitrile or latex gloves protect your hands from chemicals and make cleanup easier.
• Water Containers: Two buckets—one for clean water, one for rinsing brushes.
• Drop Cloths or Tarps: Useful for protecting sidewalks or grass.
• Portable Chair or Stool: For breaks or detailed work.

Recommended Paints and Materials

Columbus workshops typically use high-quality, exterior-grade acrylic paints. Look for brands like:

• Golden High Flow Acrylics – excellent for detail work
• Liquitex Professional Acrylics – durable and lightfast
• Mont Marte Premium Acrylics – budget-friendly and widely available

Always use a clear, UV-resistant sealant after the mural is dry. Products like Golden Archival Varnish or Mod Podge Outdoor help protect against fading and graffiti.

Online Resources

Expand your knowledge with these trusted platforms:

• Columbus Arts Council – Public Art Page: columbusarts.org/public-art – Lists current and past murals, open calls, and funding opportunities.
• Ohio Mural Registry: ohiomuralregistry.org – A searchable database of murals across the state, including Columbus.
• YouTube Channels: “Mural Art by James Jean,” “The Muralist,” and “Painting with Jane” offer technique tutorials.
• Instagram Hashtags: Follow

  ColumbusMurals, #PaintColumbus, #MuralOhio, #PublicArtColumbus for real-time updates and inspiration.

• Meetup.com: Search “Columbus Art” for informal painting groups and mural meetups.

Local Supply Stores

Stock up on materials at these Columbus-based art suppliers:

• Art Factory Columbus: 1237 N. High St. – Offers brushes, paints, and workshops.
• Michael’s Art & Craft: Multiple locations – Good for beginner supplies and discounts.
• Franklinton Arts District Supply Co.: 1240 W. Nationwide Blvd. – Local favorite with eco-friendly options.
• Ohio State University Art Supply Store: Open to the public – Excellent for professional-grade materials.

Real Examples

Example 1: “Roots and Wings” – Franklinton Community Mural

In spring 2023, the Franklinton Arts District partnered with local high school students and artists from the Columbus College of Art & Design to create “Roots and Wings,” a 50-foot mural on the side of a former warehouse. The theme celebrated generational resilience and the neighborhood’s transformation from industrial hub to creative corridor.

A 22-year-old college student, Maria, applied after seeing a flyer at the local library. She had never painted a mural before but had a background in graphic design. Her application included sketches of birds and roots—a metaphor for growth and grounding. She was accepted.

Over six weekends, Maria learned how to use a projector to scale her design, mix colors to match the community’s requested palette, and work alongside elders who shared stories of Franklinton’s past. On the final day, a community member approached her and said, “That bird? That’s my grandfather’s favorite. He used to draw them on napkins.”

Maria now volunteers with the same organization, helping lead youth workshops. Her story shows how one person’s curiosity can spark long-term community impact.

Example 2: “Voices of the River” – Scioto River Wall Project

Organized by SPACES and funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, “Voices of the River” invited 15 artists and 30 community members to paint a 200-foot wall along the Scioto River Trail. The mural featured quotes from local residents—immigrants, veterans, teachers, and teens—alongside abstract water patterns.

A retired teacher, James, 68, joined after his granddaughter told him about the project. He had not painted since high school. He was assigned to paint the word “hope” in bold, cursive letters. He practiced the font on paper for weeks. When he finally painted it on the wall, dozens of people stopped to take photos. One woman cried. “That’s the word my husband used to say before he passed,” she told James.

James now leads monthly “Art for Seniors” sessions at his community center. He says, “I didn’t think I had anything to give. But I found my voice on that wall.”

Example 3: “We Are Here” – Short North Youth Mural

Hosted by the Short North Alliance, this 2022 project brought together 40 teens from diverse backgrounds to create a mural responding to the question: “What does belonging mean to you?”

Participants attended weekly sessions where they shared personal stories. A 16-year-old nonbinary artist, Jordan, contributed the central image: a tree with roots shaped like interlocking hands. The design was voted on by the entire group.

Jordan later received a scholarship to attend a summer art intensive at the Columbus College of Art & Design. The mural now appears on the cover of the city’s annual arts guide. Jordan’s journey—from shy teenager to featured artist—shows how mural workshops can be life-changing.

Example 4: “Colors of Columbus” – University Collaboration

Ohio State University’s Department of Art partnered with the city to launch “Colors of Columbus,” a semester-long mural workshop for undergraduate and graduate students. Each team was assigned a neighborhood and tasked with interviewing residents to inform their design.

One team, studying urban sociology, spent weeks in the Hilltop neighborhood talking to local business owners. Their mural depicted a family-owned grocery store surrounded by vibrant produce, children playing, and a banner reading “This is where we grow.”

The project was featured in The Columbus Dispatch and later exhibited at the Wexner Center. Students received academic credit and professional mentorship. This example shows how mural workshops can bridge academia and community.

FAQs

Do I need to be an artist to join a mural workshop in Columbus?

No. Most community-based workshops welcome people of all skill levels. Many participants have never held a paintbrush. What matters is your willingness to listen, collaborate, and show up.

How much do mural painting workshops cost?

Many are free, especially those funded by grants or city programs. Some professional or multi-week workshops may charge $25–$100 to cover materials. Always ask if scholarships or payment plans are available.

How long do these workshops last?

Workshops vary in length. Some are one-day events; others run for 4–8 weeks with 2–4 hour sessions per week. Residencies can last up to two months.

Can I bring my kids to a mural workshop?

Some are family-friendly, especially those hosted by community centers or parks departments. Always check the event description. Youth-specific workshops are also available for ages 10–17.

What if I’m not good at painting?

That’s okay. Mural painting isn’t about perfection—it’s about participation. Many murals include abstract shapes, patterns, or text. You don’t need to be a master artist to contribute meaningfully.

Will I get credit or recognition for my work?

Most murals include a plaque or digital listing crediting all participants. Some workshops feature participant interviews or photos on their websites. Your name may appear alongside the mural’s title.

Can I propose my own mural idea?

Yes. Many organizations accept community proposals. Submit your concept with a sketch, budget estimate, and community support letters. The Columbus Arts Council has a formal public art proposal process on their website.

What if I’m not from Columbus?

Many workshops welcome visitors, especially if they’re staying in the area for an extended time. Some even have programs for artists relocating to Columbus. Check the eligibility requirements carefully.

How do I find out about upcoming workshops?

Follow the Columbus Arts Council on social media, subscribe to newsletters from SPACES and Indyke Art Studio, check Meetup.com, and visit local libraries and community centers. Word-of-mouth is powerful—ask artists you meet.

What happens to the mural after it’s finished?

Most murals are maintained by the organizing organization. Some receive annual touch-ups. Others are documented in digital archives. In rare cases, murals may be painted over due to building changes—but this is always done with community input.

Conclusion

Joining a mural painting workshop in Columbus is more than an art class—it’s an invitation to become part of the city’s living story. Through collaboration, creativity, and courage, you’ll help shape public spaces that reflect the voices, struggles, and dreams of the people who live here. Whether you’re painting your first stroke or your fiftieth, your contribution matters.

The workshops you join will challenge you, connect you, and change you. You’ll learn to see walls not as barriers, but as canvases for dialogue. You’ll meet neighbors you never knew existed. You’ll discover that art doesn’t belong in galleries—it belongs on the streets, in the sunlight, where everyone can see it.

Don’t wait for permission. Don’t wait until you feel “ready.” The murals of Columbus are waiting for you. Find a workshop. Show up. Pick up a brush. And paint your piece of the story.