Hertel Alley Mural Fest is returning this summer, June 14th–15th, thanks to the generous support of Buffalo Councilmember Joel Feroleto’s office! This bi-annual festival transforms North Buffalo’s hidden Hertel Alley into a dynamic canvas where new mural art comes to life.

Featuring live painting, music, and other creative activities, the festival celebrates Western New York’s vibrant arts scene. Every other year, the existing murals are removed and replaced, creating an ever-evolving tribute to the creativity and culture of our community.

Hertel Alley runs behind businesses between 1225 and 1301 Hertel Avenue, offering a unique, tucked-away space to experience art in progress. Whether you’re an artist, art enthusiast, or just curious, this event is not to be missed!

Event Details

Dates & Times

  • Saturday, June 14, 2025: 10:00 AM–Dusk
  • Sunday, June 15, 2025: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
  • Artists may begin setting up at 8:00 AM each day.

Location

Hertel Alley is located behind the businesses at 1225 through 1301 on Hertel Avenue in North Buffalo.

Call for Artists

We’re looking for talented artists to help transform Hertel Alley during the Mural Fest! Learn more about eligibility, artist compensation, and how to apply by reading the full Call for Artists here.

Who Can Apply

  • Open to artists and creatives in any 2D medium.
  • Preference will be given to residents of Western New York’s five counties (Allegany, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, Erie, Niagara).
  • Must be 18+ years old (all team members must also be 18+).
  • No prior mural experience is required, but applicants must show they can complete a large-scale work within a two-day time frame.

Compensation

  • Up to $2,000 per participant or team.
  • Artists are responsible for their own supplies and materials (no insurance required).

Application Details

  • Deadline: Monday, February 3, 2025, at 5:00 PM.
  • Applications should include past work samples. No design proposals are required.
  • Final designs must be image-based and free of logos, hate speech, political content, and violent imagery.

Need help submitting materials? Contact Gaitrie Subryan at (716) 833-3004 x516 or email gaitrie@asiwny.org.

Call for Artists

Apply Now

Timeline

  • Application Deadline: Monday, February 3, 2025, at 5:00 PM.
  • Selection Notification: Early March 2025. Accepted artists will be contacted via email.
  • Event Dates: Saturday, June 14, 2025 & Sunday, June 15, 2025
  • Weather Contingency Plan: If the festival is canceled due to inclement weather, artists can install their murals any time between June 14 and June 22, 2025.

For more information, check out the full Call for Artists here.

Apply Now