A mural is a big, public piece of work that people will see every day for years. Hiring the right artist matters more than almost any other choice in the project. The good news is that you do not need to be an art expert to hire well. You need a clear picture of what you want, a few good candidates, the right questions, and a written agreement.

This guide is written from the artist’s side of the ladder, so it also covers what a professional muralist will need from you to give an accurate quote.

Step 1: Get clear on the project

Before you contact anyone, write down the basics. Artists can quote faster and more accurately when they have them:

• The wall: location, rough width and height, surface (brick, block, stucco, metal, wood, drywall) and its condition.
• Inside or outside: exterior walls need different paints, sealers and often a lift or scaffolding.
• The idea: a theme, a message, colors, or a few example images you like. It is fine if this is loose.
• The budget: a range you can work with, even if it is a first guess.
• The timeline: when you want it finished, and any event it needs to be ready for.
• Who approves it: an owner, a board, a council or a design review committee.
• Permission: written OK from the building owner if you do not own the wall, and whether your town requires a permit or design review.

Not sure what a fair budget looks like? Read how much does a mural cost.

Step 2: Find mural artists

There are a few good ways to build a short list:

• Browse an artist directory. The ArtMyTown artist directory lets you see mural artists’ work, styles and the areas they serve, then contact them directly.
• Look at walls you like. Murals are often signed. Ask the business or building owner who painted them.
• Ask locally. Arts councils, Main Street programs, chambers of commerce and art supply stores often know working muralists.
• Post a call for artists. For larger or public projects, an open call lets artists come to you. See how to write a call for artists.

Aim for two to four serious candidates. More than that gets hard to compare and takes up a lot of artists’ time.

Step 3: Review portfolios

A portfolio tells you more than any sales pitch. When you look at an artist’s past work, check for:

• Finished walls, not just sketches or canvases. Painting large on a wall is its own skill.
• Similar size and setting. Someone with interior walls only may still be great, but ask how they would handle a two-story exterior.
• A style that fits. Lettering, realism, bold graphic shapes and playful cartoon work are different specialties.
• Older murals. Photos of walls a few years old show how the artist’s prep and materials hold up.

If you can, go see one of their murals in person.

Step 4: Questions to ask a muralist

1. Have you painted a wall like this one (size, surface, inside or outside)?
2. What does your quote include, and what does it not include?
3. How does the design process work, and how many rounds of changes are included?
4. What paints, primers and clear coats do you use on this kind of wall?
5. Who handles wall prep, the lift or scaffolding, and any permits?
6. Do you carry liability insurance, and can you provide a certificate if we need one?
7. How long will it take, and what happens if weather causes delays?
8. What is your payment schedule?
9. Can you share contact information for a past client?
10. What upkeep will the mural need, and do you offer touch-ups?

Step 5: Compare quotes fairly

Two quotes can look far apart and actually cover very different work. Line them up item by item:

• Design fee and number of revisions
• Painting labor
• Paint, primer and protective clear coat
• Wall prep such as power washing, repairs and sealing
• Lift, scaffolding or equipment rental
• Travel and lodging
• Insurance and permits

Divide each total by the wall’s square footage to get a cost per square foot, which makes comparisons easier. The lowest number is not always the best value. A quote that skips the clear coat or wall prep can cost more later in repairs.

If the budget is tight, ask the artist what could change to fit it, such as a simpler design, fewer colors or a smaller painted area. Many projects also mix sources. See our guides to mural grants and getting a business to sponsor a mural.

Step 6: Put it in writing

A short, plain agreement protects you and the artist. It should cover:

• Scope: the wall, the size of the painted area and the approved design.
• Price and payments: the total and when each payment is due. Many muralists ask for a deposit before starting and the rest at set milestones or on completion.
• Timeline: start and finish dates, and how weather delays are handled.
• Who provides what: materials, lift, wall prep, permits, access to water and power.
• Design changes: how many revisions are included and what extra changes cost.
• Credit and rights: where the artist signs, how the artist and any sponsors are credited, and whether the artist may use photos of the mural in their portfolio.
• Care and removal: upkeep, touch-ups, and what happens if the wall is ever painted over or the building changes hands.

This guide is not legal advice. For large or public projects, have the agreement reviewed by your attorney or your town’s legal staff.

Step 7: During and after painting

Once painting starts, give the artist what they need to work: safe access to the wall, a place to store supplies, and a single contact person who can answer questions quickly. Expect the wall to look rough in the middle stages. That is normal.

When it is done, walk the wall with the artist before the final payment, take good photos, and plan a simple dedication or social media post that credits the artist and sponsors. Ask how often the clear coat should be checked so the mural lasts.

Red flags to watch for

• No photos of finished murals, only digital mockups
• A quote with no breakdown, or one that will not say what is included
• Asking for the full amount up front
• No mention of wall prep or protective coating on an outdoor wall
• Unwilling to put the agreement in writing

This article is general information, not legal, insurance or financial advice. Requirements for permits, insurance and contracts vary by town and project.