Art that moves

The final selected artworks will play a role in shaping how SAM builds a deeply memorable, next-gen transit experience for our vibrant community.

Will your art help move us forward?

Contest details

Timeline

• Submission period: February 20, 2026 – March 28, 2026
• Judging period: March 30, 2026 – April 1, 2026
• Announcement of contest winners: April 2, 2026

Encouraged themes

• Life in Sioux Falls
• Local pride, landmarks, and culture
• Bold, colorful, eye-catching visuals


Key judging criteria

• Visual impact from a distance
• Relevance to Sioux Falls
• Clear and compelling storytelling
• Ability to scale up to a 35-foot bus

Tips on what we’re looking for

• Existing or new artwork you’ve created (net-new artwork not required)
• Think bold, simple, and high-contrast
• Avoid small details, thin lines, or delicate text

Content guidelines

• Artwork must be original or fully owned by the artist
• No political messaging, explicit content, or advertising
• All designs must be appropriate for all ages

The award

• City-Wide Exposure: Your art featured on a 35-foot bus for at least six months.
• 1 year of free SAM Transit
• $500 cash award
• Gallery Credit: Featured profile on the Sioux Area Metro website and social media.

Eligibility

• Open to individuals at least 18 years of age residing within twenty-five (25) miles of the City of Sioux Falls city borders.

Submission requirements

Provide an original, high-resolution design of your artwork suitable for large-scale print reproduction and a bus mockup using the official template provided. In the final form submission, artists will be asked to submit an Artist Statement for a brief description of their concept. See below steps for submitting your work.

1. Artwork materials & specifications

Provide your high-resolution artwork:

• Vector-based (.ai) or high-resolution raster files (.tiff, .psd).
• Adobe Illustrator program is recommended for vector-based graphics and optimal for large scale application.

• 300 DPI at full size (we will work with winners to scale the artwork for a 35-ft Gillig bus at full size).
• Low-resolution or web images will not print well and may be disqualified.

Download the official template

Provide your bus template mockup. Place your artwork within the official .ai template per included instructions (Illustrator program required). Apply your design to the four vehicle sides provided to convey your vision on placement and act as a visual guide.

• Artwork placed on windows will appear darker, partially see-through.

• Prep artwork file to avoid faces, text, or important details on areas with windows or doors
• Bus wrap file: Final contestants will be contacted to connect with a production team that will help get the files ready for printing.
• Final production and placement will be handled by professional wrap installers. Artists are not expected to design to exact panel seams or technical cut lines.

2. Package your file.

Place your artwork file and bus mockup file (.ai) in a folder and create a Zip File. Zip instructions here if you need help!

3. Submit.

Once artwork files have been packaged, please fill out the form and submit your materials using the official contest submission form below.

Send your submission

Artist acknowledgment

By submitting, you confirm that:

• You meet the eligibility requirements
• Your artwork meets the technical guidelines above
• You own the rights to the submitted work
• You agree to the Official Terms and Conditions

Send your submission

Questions?

If you have questions or need additional information please reach out to:
anna.mcnulty@ridewithvia.com

The official ART ON THE MOVE contest is organized in partnership by: