Call for Artists-Mt. Rainier Skate Park - Parks & Recreation MNCPPC (Due Mar. 29)

Call for Artists-Mt. Rainier Skate Park - Parks & Recreation MNCPPC
Deadline: March 29th, 2026

The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County invites Artists (both individual artists and artist teams) with interest and professional experience in creating public art and site-specific commissions, to submit qualifications for an original exterior public art feature, at the Mt. Rainier Skate Park in Mt. Rainier, MD. 

Mount Rainier Skate Park is located just behind the Imagination Theme Playground, on the corner of Wells Avenue and Otis Street, wedged between a residential area and train tracks. At approximately 6,000 square feet, it provides great space for skaters and all. This park is located within the Mount Rainier Historic District and also the Gateway Arts District, which is a haven for creativity with an array of art studios, event and performance venues, and creative spaces. In fact, the skate park is parallel to the artists' studios located on Otis Street, where you will find larger-than-life, bold, and colorful murals affixed on the brick walls. 

The skate park features a plaza design for beginner and intermediate skaters, as well as two raised plaza areas connected to steps, rails, and ramps. The skate park also has picnic tables and benches. The skate park underwent renovations and maintenance, which resulted in a smoother riding experience.

The community creative art day Deck the Park—Public Art Bash took place in fall 2025 at Mt. Rainier Skate Park; community members embarked on selecting different visuals to determine the future look and feel of Mt. Rainier Skate Park. Thereafter, an online survey was conducted, and the results from both the in-person creative arts day and the online survey helped to inform the project goals and themes for this call for artist opportunity.

 

About M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County

The M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, serves Prince George's County in Maryland, providing comprehensive park and recreation programs, facilities, and services that support healthy lifestyles and responds to changing needs within County communities. The Department strives to preserve, enhance, and protect open spaces to enrich the quality of life for present and future generations in a safe and secure environment. The Department of Parks and Recreation is a well-respected leader in the field with an unprecedented six national gold medals for excellence. It operates and maintains more than 27,000 acres of parkland throughout the county, including land developed to provide parks, picnic areas, athletic fields, historic sites, community centers, and recreation facilities. 

Public Artwork Goals & Themes

This public art opportunity is made possible by the input of community members that live or work within the Mt. Rainier Skate Park area. Overall goals for the public art project include:

  • The Art Style should incorporate Cultural and Heritage components that are inspired by local traditions and diverse identities.

  • The Color Palette Vibes should signify Bold and Bright colors that are energetic, fun, and high contrast.

  • The Themes to Explore should center around Youth Culture and Skate Life.

  • The preferred Location of the public artwork is Murals on the Walls.

 Eligibility

Open to professional artists or artist teams aged 18 and over. Artists living or working in Mt. Rainier, MD, Prince George’s County and the surrounding region are strongly encouraged to apply. Local artists or artist teams that are engaged in the skating culture are also encouraged to apply.

 Budget

A total budget of $70,000 is allocated for this commission, which must cover all costs, including artist fee, design, materials, fabrication, installation, insurance, and transportation.

 Site Description

The Mt. Rainier Skate Park is looking for art to be executed as murals on the concrete walls directly on the surface of the skate park.

To learn more and apply, click here.

Isaac Pleta