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Call for Volunteers:
Make Literary Magic Happen

Volunteers are needed for the Northern Arizona Book Festival April 9-12, 2026. Whether you have loved a past event or just want to see the behind-the-scenes choreography, this essential work will connect you to Northern Arizona’s literary community. What does volunteering look like? From moving chairs and helping at check-in, to pointing attendees toward the right room and occasionally solving a “literary emergency,” your availability will be matched with your interests.

The Northern Arizona Book Festival is supported by the City of Flagstaff Bed, Board & Beverage (BBB) tax fund.

Image: Courtesy of Northern Arizona Book Festival

Call to Artists: Coconino County Superior Court Enhancement Project

The Criminal Justice Coordinating Council announces a public art opportunity for artists, graphic designers, and illustrators to create an original artwork for permanent display in the Coconino County Superior Courthouse. This project seeks to merge cultural expression with environmental stewardship by commissioning a local artist familiar with, and connected to, the region and local Indigenous/Native American communities. Artwork should reflect the artist’s community heritage and honor natural features with cultural significance in the region; promote waste reduction and reuse; uplift Indigenous voices, traditions, and visual storytelling; and include landscapes, wildlife, traditions, or motifs with cultural or spiritual meaning. All visual and interdisciplinary media are welcome.

This is an acquisition grant, and the art will be purchased and become property of Coconino County and the Superior Courthouse.

Application Deadline: May 15, 2026, 5 pm (Arizona Time)

Image: Courtesy of Coconino County

Creativity + Community in Action

Local artist Duane Koyawena (Hopi-Tewa) recently completed a vibrant new mural on the exterior of Anderson General Tire, which was unveiled over the weekend. Made possible through the City of Flagstaff’s Beautification in Action grant program, the striking artwork brightens a well-traveled corridor in the Sunnyside neighborhood, fosters community pride, and has built long-lasting neighborhood relationships during its creation. A special thank you to project managers Kathy Farretta and Coral Evans, and to the young artists from W.F. Killip Elementary School for their creativity and collaboration.

Image: Anderson General Tire Mural by Duane Koyawena

Call to Artists: Request for Qualifications

The City of Safford is seeking an Arizona artist or artist team to design and paint a mural on the exterior north wall of the Safford City-Graham County Library. The artwork, measuring 70’ x 10’ 7,” should reflect the library’s role in the community and inspire residents to engage with the space. From the initial applicant pool, up to three (3) artists will be selected to develop a proposed mural design and will each receive a $300 stipend. The total budget for the project is up to $25,000.

Note: Artists traveling from outside of the local area will be provided accommodations for the duration of the painting phase.

Application Deadline: April 23, 2026, 11:59 pm (Arizona Time)

Image: Courtesy of Safford City-Graham County Library

Interested in a Career in Public Art?

Are you an artist or a public artist who is interested in entering or advancing your career in public art? Join Tempe Public Art for a dynamic mixer designed to connect artists and fabricators with new mediums, networks, and opportunities. Whether you create, build, or are simply curious about expanding your practice, this mixer is a great opportunity to meet fellow artists and learn about upcoming opportunities to gain new skills. Enjoy interactive activities, visit fabrication teams’ tables for information, and explore the Eisendrath House, featuring temporary installations from ASU’s SITE class.

April 28, 2026, 5:30-7:30 pm
Tempe Public Art Insights: 2026 Artist | Fabricator Networking Mixer
Eisendrath House, Tempe
Free + Open to all creatives

Image: Courtesy of Tempe Public Art

Save the Date: July 16-17, 2026

Downtown Matters Conference

Join downtown leaders, planners, policymakers, and placemaking professionals for a two-day conference exploring why downtowns matter and how vibrant urban centers drive economic vitality, community connection, and long-term resilience. Attendees will enjoy learning and networking, optional evening events, and breakfast and lunch daily. This event is presented by the Flagstaff Downtown Business Alliance.

July 16-17, 2026
Downtown Matters: Understanding the Impact of Our Urban Centers

Orpheum Theater, Downtown Flagstaff
$220 All-Access (Before May 12)
$275 All-Access (After May 12)

Image: Courtesy of Flagstaff Downtown Business Alliance