Help wanted: Salt Lake artist to give 9th and 9th whale a ‘fun’ new look

Utah’s capital city is already prepared to give its arguably most prominent inanimate creature a colorful makeover in 2026 .

And now Salt Lake City is searching for a local artist to transform Out of the Blue, the large whale sculpture that has captivated many residents and visitors since it was installed over three years ago in the city’s 9th and 9th District.

Salt Lake City Arts Council officials launched an online application process for the 23-foot sculpture’s new design on Monday. The city says it is looking to find a Salt Lake County-based artist or resident who can create a “dynamic, community-centered mural” celebrating the neighborhood’s “creativity and character.”

Artists have until the end of the day on Jan. 2, 2026, to apply with examples from their portfolio. A new desi