Abbey Mural Scholarship Trust
Supporting the creation and appreciation of public murals through scholarships, grants, and cultural outreach since 1932.
Learn More About Our AwardsChampioning Public Art for Over 90 Years
Founded in 1932 in honor of the esteemed American artist Edwin Austin Abbey, the Abbey Mural Scholarship Trust is a long-standing institution devoted to nurturing artistic talent and celebrating the transformative impact of public art. Our mission is to empower emerging muralists through meaningful support and opportunities, enabling them to bring their visions to life on large-scale walls and in shared spaces. We firmly believe that murals are more than just paintings—they are powerful tools for storytelling, community expression, and cultural preservation. By investing in the next generation of artists, we aim to ensure that public art remains a vibrant and essential part of civic life. Through our scholarship programs and advocacy, the Abbey Mural Scholarship Trust continues to uphold the legacy of Edwin Austin Abbey, inspiring creativity and encouraging dialogue through accessible, inclusive, and impactful mural art.
Spotlight on Impact
Discover how our latest grant recipient, Elena Vasquez, is transforming the Lincoln Community Center with their new mural, 'Echoes of Unity'.
View Our Gallery
Join Us in Celebrating Public Art
Explore the legacy of support, discover the impact of our awards, and see the incredible murals brought to life through the Abbey Mural Scholarship Trust.
A Legacy Inspired by Edwin Austin Abbey
The Abbey Mural Scholarship Trust was established in 1932 as a lasting tribute to Edwin Austin Abbey, N.A., R.A. (1852–1911), a distinguished American muralist and illustrator renowned for his grand historical and literary scenes. Abbey’s monumental works grace the walls of prominent public institutions in both the United States and the United Kingdom, including the Boston Public Library and the Royal Exchange in London. For more than ninety years, the Trust has honored Abbey’s vision and legacy by investing in the future of mural art. We are deeply committed to supporting emerging and mid-career artists who demonstrate the passion, skill, and imagination required to enrich public spaces through mural painting. Our mission is not only to provide financial assistance but also to champion the cultural importance of murals as dynamic reflections of our shared heritage, civic identity, and community values. Through continuous outreach, education, and sponsorship, the Abbey Mural Scholarship Trust strives to ensure that muralism remains a living, evolving art form—accessible, meaningful, and celebrated across generations.
![Edwin Austin Abbey Portrait or Work](https://api.nga.gov/iiif/4f4323d7-dddf-4ef5-a7ad-3928da4fed13/full/full/0/default.jpg?attachment_filename="who_is_sylvia?_what_is_she,_that_all_the_swains_commend_her?"_2014.136.19.jpg)
Cultivating Creativity, Transforming Communities
Our mission is to support the creation and appreciation of public murals. We achieve this by providing crucial financial assistance to artists through scholarships and grants, and by fostering cultural outreach that highlights the importance and impact of mural art in public spaces. We aim to empower artists to realize their visions and to bring inspiring art to communities everywhere.
Guided by Principle
Artistic Excellence
Championing high-quality, innovative, and impactful mural art.
Legacy & Innovation
Honoring tradition while embracing contemporary approaches.
Community Enrichment
Believing in art's power to enhance public spaces and foster dialogue.
Artist Support
Providing resources for artists to create and succeed.
Cultural Stewardship
Promoting appreciation and preservation of mural art.
Envisioning a More Vibrant Public Realm
Our vision is a world where public spaces are animated by exceptional mural art that reflects diverse cultures, histories, and aspirations. We strive to be a leading force in the support of muralists, enabling the creation of enduring works that inspire civic pride, encourage public engagement, and contribute to a rich visual environment for generations to come.
The Abbey Mural Scholarship Trust is proud to offer significant opportunities for artists dedicated to the art of mural painting. Our awards aim to support ambitious projects and provide invaluable experiences for artists at different stages of their careers, both in the United States and internationally.
Abbey Mural Prize (United States)
Supporting the creation of new murals in public buildings or buildings owned by non-profit organizations across the United States.
Grant Amount: $10,000 – $40,000 to selected artists or groups.
Focus: Projects that demonstrate artistic merit, community engagement, and a strong conceptual basis.
Application Deadline: May 2, 2025
Eligibility & Application Guidelines
Abbey Awards (United Kingdom)
Residencies at the British School at Rome
Prestigious residency opportunities at the renowned British School at Rome (BSR), offering artists time, space, and a vibrant interdisciplinary community to further their practice.
Fellowships: Three-month residencies providing dedicated research and studio time, accompanied by a monthly stipend.
Scholarships: Nine-month residencies offering an extended period for in-depth projects and artistic development, with a monthly stipend.
Eligibility: Open to artists from the United Kingdom and the United States, or long-term residents of either country.
Discover More & Apply via BSRFor detailed eligibility criteria, application procedures, and FAQs, please refer to the specific guidelines for each award. We encourage all potential applicants to thoroughly review these materials.
Explore a selection of the remarkable murals brought to life with support from the Abbey Mural Scholarship Trust. Each work represents a unique artistic vision and a lasting contribution to public art.
Urban Bloom
Jane Doe - New York, USA (2023)
Community Threads
John Smith - London, UK (2022)
Future Visions
Aiysha Khan - Chicago, USA (2024)
River's Song
Carlos Gomez - Austin, USA (2023)
Market Life
Sophie Dubois - Paris, France (2022)
Silent Watchers
Kenji Tanaka - Kyoto, Japan (2024)
Email Us
info@abbeymuraltrust.orgSend Us Mail
Abbey Mural Scholarship Trust10 S Dearborn Il1-0111
Chicago, IL 60603-2300
For specific inquiries regarding applications, please refer to the guidelines on our Awards page first.