Call for Artist - A Tribute to Melvin Franklin

The Mobile Arts Councils is in search for a muralist to pay homage to Mr. Melvin Franklin, the legendary bass singer of The Temptations, who was born in Montgomery but raised on Congress Street in Mobile, AL.

Additional site and reference images are in the application.

 

ABOUT MELVIN FRANKLIN

Melvin Franklin (born David Melvin English; October 12, 1942 – February 23, 1995) was an American bass singer best known as a founding member of the legendary Motown group The Temptations. Renowned for his deep, resonant voice and charismatic stage presence, Franklin anchored the group’s harmonies on countless hits such as “My Girl,” “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” and “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone.” Known affectionately as “Blue” to his bandmates, Franklin was celebrated not only for his musical talent but also for his warmth, humor, and loyalty. He remained with The Temptations for over three decades, helping define the soulful sound that shaped Motown and American music history.

 

LOCATION

The mural will be located on the northwest-facing wall of the International Longshoremen’s Association Local 1410 on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, just blocks from downtown. Situated across from the new Isom Clemon Civil Rights Memorial Park, this revitalized stretch of “the Avenue” features major projects like the $3.5 million Ace Theatre renovation (expected in early 2027) and the restoration of the historic Union Hall. The selected wall directly faces the Ace Theatre.

Wall dimensions, 18'6" x 13'0"

TIMELINE
The following schedule is provided for planning purposes; however all dates are subject to revision.

November 1, 2025 - Applications open

November 30, 2025 - Applications close

Artist notified no later than December 19, 2025

 

Contact Angela Montgomery at amontgomery@mobilearts.org or 251-432-9796 for questions regarding this project.