Commerce Announces 12 Rural Mural Awards to Enrich Kansas Communities

Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced that the agency has awarded $75,000 in Rural Mural funding to support 12 public art projects in rural communities across the state.

“Our rural communities are the backbone of what makes our state so great — they’re rich in culture, resilience and unique identity,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Investing in these large-scale public art pieces allows communities to signal not only hometown pride but a commitment to harnessing creativity to drive economic growth across Kansas.”

Recipients of the Rural Mural grant include: 

• City of Belle Plaine ($7,424): A vibrant mural celebrating the city’s history, small-town charm and community spirit through colorful, whimsical art
• City of Halstead ($7,424): A mural designed with community input to warmly welcome visitors and reflect local identity
• City of Herington/Visit Herington! CVB ($3,124): An automotive-themed mural and painted locomotive sculptures by local artists
• City of Jewell ($5,979): Expansion of buffalo public art installations celebrating the region’s natural and cultural history
• Decatur County Area Economic Development Corporation ($3,924): A festive mural capturing the joy and nostalgia of community carnivals
• Genesis Inc. of Coffeyville ($6,808): A public art project symbolizing growth, renewal, and community transformation
• Linger Gig Lab ($7,424): A creative logo mural representing the organization’s identity and mission in Cimarron
• Mo-Kan Regional Council ($4,697): A mural project showcasing the spirit and resilience of small-town life in Wathena
• Phillips County Community Foundation ($7,424): A mural project highlighting the interdependence of the local agriculture community
• Sabetha Chamber of Commerce ($7,424): A downtown mural designed to promote civic pride and enhance community aesthetics
• South Central Community Foundation ($5,924): IMPACT Pratt’s community-driven mural project enriching a local park with vibrant imagery
• Wabaunsee County Historical Society ($7,424): A mural on Main Street in Maple Hill honoring the region’s ranching roots and rural traditions

“We’re thrilled to be able to support 12 more murals and public art projects across the state,” Director of the Office of Rural Prosperity Trisha Purdon said. “These works of art will not only beautify and revitalize underutilized spaces but also foster a sense of pride and belonging through these new vibrant gathering spaces.”

The Rural Mural funds are one of the many resources provided by the Department of Commerce that work to support rural communities in Kansas. See all of the grant programs here.

To learn more about the Rural Murals program, click here.