Lakeland could always use some more art, right? That's where the Color Wave Walls mural festival comes into play. Hosted by local artists Gillian Fazio and Katerina Santos, this event will be the first of its kind in Swan City.

The festival will invite experienced muralists to create large-scale paintings around the downtown area from Nov. 6 through Nov. 14. Visitors will enjoy mural tours, gallery shows, and panels, while local students apprentice with the muralists.

The first step is finding the right canvases. Fazio and Santos are seeking around 10 local businesses with walls that could use some love. "We’re especially excited to work with business owners who are enthusiastic about collaboration, interested in highlighting their business, and open to working with a renowned artist," they said.

To apply, email the exact address + photos of the wall to colorwavewalls@gmail.com. Selected businesses will be notified by Wednesday, April 1. The festival will provide murals at no cost to property owners.
Are you a painter looking to make your mark? Artist applications open on Sunday, Feb. 1, with more info to come on the Color Wave Walls Instagram page. Applicants must have at least three completed murals in their portfolio. Volunteer opportunities will be announced later for others who want to get involved.

What's driving Fazio and Santos to host Color Wave Walls? One of their goals for the festival is to "position Lakeland as a leading mural destination in the Southeast," and they also foresee an economic impact from tourism — both during the event and long after the paint has dried.

Before the festival takes shape, take a tour of Lakeland's current murals and find your new favorite.