Call for Artists: Spirits of Renewal – The Artistic Alchemy of Women in Distilling and Regenerative Agriculture

Illustration of a woman using a distiller
Now accepting applications!

The Illuminating Discovery Hub at the Wisconsin Institute for Discovery (WID) is excited to announce the commissioning of its next Science to Street Art large-scale mural celebrating regenerative agriculture, the chemistry of distilling, and the significant contributions of women in the distilling industry. This mural will be prominently displayed on an exterior wall across from State Line Distillery, located at 101 S. Dickinson St., Madison, WI. A competitive compensation is available for the selected Wisconsin artist or artists’ group. 

Mural Details:

  • Theme: Regenerative Agriculture, Chemistry of Distilling, Women in Distilling
  • Location: State Line Distillery, 101 S. Dickinson St., Madison, WI 53703 (Southeast facing exterior wall)
  • Dimensions: Approximately 15 feet high by 50 feet wide
  • Final Installation Date: September 30, 2024

Project Overview:

This mural highlights regenerative agriculture practices, the intricate chemistry involved in distilling, the invaluable contributions of female distillers, and picturesque Wisconsin farm landscapes. The selected artist(s) will design the mural in collaboration with WID, UW-Madison, State Line Distillery, and other designated scientists. The mural’s title will be finalized and agreed upon at a later date.

Compensation:

The artist will receive up to $20,000 toward the project. These funds are intended to cover all expenses, including materials, supplies, insurance, and travel costs. This generous funding is provided by Exact Sciences.

Artist Selection Process:

A Science to Street Art review committee comprising UW–Madison researchers, artists, and community stakeholders will select a local artist or group of artists. The chosen artist(s) will work closely with the committee to finalize the mural concept, incorporating subject matter expertise provided by scientists. 

Science to Street Art Background: 

Science to Street Art murals are intended to enhance place-making in communities around Madison and the state of Wisconsin, making communities more vibrant and culturally rich. This mural initiative is a form of science communication that communicates basic scientific concepts to a broad audience using visually engaging and easily accessible art. The murals serve as an inspiration for curiosity and interest in science and art, especially in youth. 

 

The murals also help to bridge the gap between the scientific community and the general public. “Commissioning these murals involves collaboration between scientists, artists, and the community, which can lead to the discovery of emerging artistic talent, foster a sense of community engagement and conversation, and bring important scientific knowledge to light,” says Andrew Hanus, director of the Illuminating Discovery Hub. 

The mural creation process will commence on July 20, 2024, with completion expected by September 30, 2024.

The mural will be created in a street art style, designed to be accessible and engaging for K-12 students and the general public.

Application Information:

Emerging and established Wisconsin artists are encouraged to apply. Selection criteria include the quality of artwork, artistic excellence, creativity, originality, and technical skill. We aim to choose a dynamic artist or artist group whose work represents the diversity of our scientific community. Applicants must be available from July 20 through September 30, 2024, for workshop attendance, mural creation, and completion.

Submission Deadline: 11:00 PM, July 7, 2024.
Interested artists can APPLY HERE. 

For more information about the Science to Street Art initiative, or how to be an additional donor and get involved, please contact Andrew Hanus at ahanus2@wisc.edu. For photos of the building and additional details about Science to Street Art, please visit go.wisc.edu/s2sa.