mt. rainier skate park : public art opportunity
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County invites Artists (both individual artists and artist teams) with interest and professional experience in creating public art and site-specific commissions, to submit qualifications for an original exterior public art feature, at the Mt. Rainier Skate Park in Mt. Rainier, MD.
Mount Rainier Skate Park is located just behind the Imagination Theme Playground, on the corner of Wells Avenue and Otis Street, wedged between a residential area and train tracks. At approximately 6,000 square feet, it provides great space for skaters and all. This park is located within the Mount Rainier Historic District and also the Gateway Arts District, which is a haven for creativity with an array of art studios, event and performance venues, and creative spaces. In fact, the skate park is parallel to the artists' studios located on Otis Street, where you will find larger-than-life, bold, and colorful murals affixed on the brick walls.
The skate park features a plaza design for beginner and intermediate skaters, as well as two raised plaza areas connected to steps, rails, and ramps. The skate park also has picnic tables and benches. The skate park underwent renovations and maintenance, which resulted in a smoother riding experience.
The community creative art day Deck the Park—Public Art Bash took place in fall 2025 at Mt. Rainier Skate Park; community members embarked on selecting different visuals to determine the future look and feel of Mt. Rainier Skate Park. Thereafter, an online survey was conducted, and the results from both the in-person creative arts day and the online survey helped to inform the project goals and themes for this call for artist opportunity.
Public Artwork Goals & Themes
This public art opportunity is made possible by the input of community members that live or work within the Mt. Rainier Skate Park area. Overall goals for the public art project include:
The Art Style should incorporate Cultural and Heritage components that are inspired by local traditions and diverse identities.
The Color Palette Vibes should signify Bold and Bright colors that are energetic, fun, and high contrast.
The Themes to Explore should center around Youth Culture and Skate Life.
The preferred Location of the public artwork is Murals on the Walls.
Timeline
Proposal Finalist Selection: April 2026
Installation Completion: Fall 2026