Paint CHQ is launching the Paint CHQ Apprenticeship Program, a hands-on initiative designed to help interested individuals to develop large-scale murals.

Local artists who are interested in learning more about how to install a mural can apply to participate in the Paint CHQ Mural Apprentice Program. The Paint CHQ Mural Apprentice Program will offer artists an opportunity to garner experience installing a large-scale mural. Applications are now open and will be accepted through June 1, 2025.

Applicant must be 18 or older, or have parental permission, must live in Chautauqua County and be able to volunteer hours to this apprentice program during Paint CHQ mural festival from Sept. 7-13.

“This is an excellent resume builder for an aspiring muralist,” said Alexandra Hall from A H Public Spaces Consulting, who’s been brought in to oversee the Paint CHQ initiative. “Apprentices will be paired with experienced muralists and asked to help assist in the mural installation during the mural festival. Apprentices may learn how to scale a design to fit a building, learn about different mediums, and expand their artist-network!”

Paint CHQ is a new public art initiative intended to highlight and bring new interest to communities in Chautauqua County. The project is being coordinated by the Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth, in collaboration with the Chautauqua County Department of Planning and Development. It will culminate with a countywide festival the second week of September that involves the creation of large public murals in Dunkirk, Falconer, Sherman, and Westfield. As part of the initiative, professional artists have been selected to create the artwork. Both the artists and the specific locations will be announced this summer.

To sign up for the Apprenticeship Program or to learn more about the Paint CHQ Festival in September, visit ChooseCHQ.com/PaintCHQ. Inquiries about the program can also be emailed to project coordinator Rebecca Wurster at WursterR@chqgov.com, or call 716-363-3620.