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Student Mural Contest

Northwestern students now have an opportunity to leave their creative design on the new Ryan Field.

View of Ryan Field exterior

Submission Guidelines

The winning design should be big, bold, playful — and original

If it’s something that would make you stop, take a picture and share it with friends, you’re on the right track. And please note that the use of generative AI tools is prohibited.

Do:

  • Create an original design that is entirely your own, without the use of artificial intelligence.
  • Make it something fun, energetic and exciting that students will want to share.
  • Explore a wide range of visual ideas and styles — get creative and push the boundaries.
  • Ensure your design prominently features Northwestern purple and feels like it can happily coexist on our campus environment.

Do not:

  • Use any AI-generated imagery or copyrighted characters or logos.
  • Include people or likenesses; focus on graphic, abstract or symbolic elements instead.
  • Include any political messaging or imagery. We want this to feel distinctly Northwestern, but in a fresh, student-driven way.

Questions? 

SEE aLL Contest FAQs

Artwork Requirements

To learn more...

Please reach out to hello@ryansports.com with any technical or formatting questions.

Scale and Size

Final dimensions:

  • Artwork area: 78’4” W x 15.4” H
  • With bleed: 78.8’ W x 15.8” H (Include a minimum of 2” bleed on all sides.)

Final artwork should be created at a minimum of 1:10 scale ratio (tenth the size).

graphic showing mural size

Resolution

For raster artwork, files must be a minimum of 300 dpi.

Color

File Formats

Accepted File Formats:

  • High-resolution raster file (PSD, TIFF, or JPEG)
  • Vector file (AI or EPS)

Material

Artwork will be printed on vinyl.

Mural Inspiration

We’ve gathered a few examples of the type of artwork that we’re looking for.

Geometric mural
Credit: Getty Images
Floral mural
Credit: Getty Images
Globe mural
Credit: Getty Images
Geometric figurative mural
Credit: Getty Images

How is a mural made?

Three Chicago muralists share their secrets.

How to Submit Your Mural Designs

  • Please note the use of generative AI tools is prohibited, and any submission using AI will be disqualified.
  • Submissions will be accepted through March 1.
  • Send mural submissions as a PDF file (maximum 20 MB) via email to hello@ryansports.com
  • Artwork may be submitted at a smaller scale to meet file size limitations; however, please ensure your design can meet the final artwork requirements if selected.
  • In addition to the artwork, please include a brief written narrative describing your creative approach and the inspiration behind the design.
  • Northwestern will have final say in selection and will own the rights.
  • $1,500 will be paid to the student-artist whose mural is selected for the new Ryan Field stadium as payment for rights pursuant to an artist agreement.