Interested in helping the 516 Canal Neighbors?

Please consider donating to the Canal Alliance Support Fund or the Marin Community Foundation Canal Residents Emergency Fund.

   

Public Art

Library & Recreation Falkirk Cultural Center Downtown Arts District Public Art
Back Public Art Review Board Public Art Program Art and Public Expression Art with a Purpose Fifth & C St. Public Art Project: Sponsored by Parking Division

The City of San Rafael recognizes the critical value that public art provides to our community. Public art is accessible and free for all to enjoy. From providing cultural enrichment to driving economic development, public art plays an important role in developing thriving, vibrant communities. In 2017, the City of San Rafael’s Downtown corridor was selected as one of ten California Cultural Districts by the California Arts Council. The arts district provides a unique place to create and appreciate arts and culture – San Rafael arts partners provide programming for people to come together, make connections, and get involved in the larger community.

Public Art Programs

Chalk Birds Flying
Public Art Program 2025-2026

The City of San Rafael has launched a Public Art Program to enhance its Downtown vitality. The $250,000 program, funded by a California Arts Commission grant, will result in new permanent and temporary art installations in the form of murals, mosaics, and sculptures. Installations are expected to take place in the Spring/Summer of 2026.

San Rafael Arts District Cultural Center
Downtown San Rafael Arts District

The Downtown San Rafael Arts District (DSRAD) collaborates with local arts leaders, businesses, city officials, and community members to create a vibrant and engaging environment that promotes well-being, equity, and inclusivity through the arts.

art and sculpture on display
Falkirk Cultural Center

Falkirk has exhibited the work of Bay Area collective groups such as the California Watercolor Association, California Society of Printmakers, BayWood Artists, the Association of Clay and Glass Artists, Guerrilla Girls, Terra Linda Ceramics and many more.

Where can I view/enjoy Public Art in San Rafael?

The City has experienced an increase in interest in public art projects from the community, with individuals and groups across the City exploring opportunities to develop public art projects. In response to this increase in demand, the City of San Rafael is looking to partner with and support those interested in pursuing public art projects. Take a look at our interactive map where you can find completed projects across the City.

What’s the review process for public art?

For those interested in submitting a proposal for art on public property, the City has developed the below Public Art Review Guidelines and Public Art Application Instructions, which outline the review process, the criteria that the Public Art Board uses to evaluate proposed projects, and the application requirements. Before submitting a proposal, applicants are encouraged to read the guidelines and the application instructions thoroughly.

To facilitate the public art approval process, the City has developed a Public Art Review Board and a streamlined Public Art Review Process.

Past Public Art Programs

San Rafael Arts News

2025 San Rafael Call For Artists

Call for Artists – Public Art Opportunity – Deadline July 25, 2025

Posted on July 3, 2025

The City of San Rafael, CA is excited to announce a call for artists for five public art opportunities in the Downtown San Rafael Arts District for installation in 2026. Artists and artist teams are invited to apply, including mural opportunities for California-based artists and sculpture opportunities for all US-based artists. Downtown San Rafael has...
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