By Fox23.com News Staff
OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma City Thunder is partnering with Arts Council Oklahoma City (ACOKC) for the 2026 Fresh Paint project.
Fresh Paint is a professional development project aimed at supporting muralists from underrepresented communities.
The program serves as part of an ongoing effort to provide artists more professional opportunities.
“We are grateful to partner with the Oklahoma City Thunder to produce such an impactful professional development opportunity for local artists,” said Angela Cozby, Executive Director of Arts Council Oklahoma City. “Fresh Paint is designed to meet artists where they are and provide the professional foundation they need to move forward with confidence. Through mentorship and hands-on learning, participants develop essential skills required to be a successful muralist. As artists grow professionally, they contribute more fully to Oklahoma City’s cultural fabric, strengthening the arts ecosystem and the community it serves.”
The initiative will be led by two artists, Madeline Sanders and Tiffany McKnight.
Sanders, known professionally as Holatte, is a graphic designer and a citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. She is also a member of the Thunder Artist Group (TAG).
McKnight is a multidisciplinary artist, surface designer, and muralist. She incorporates her Nigerian heritage into her work.
Fresh Paint takes technical mural instruction and pairs it with professional development to help artists prepare for a public career. Artists gain mentorships and training in self-promotion.
2026 applications have closed and five artists have been chosen to participate. They will be announced later this month.
The mural painting will take place February 3-6 with public voting to open April 5 during an OKC Thunder home game.
The winning muralist will be announced April 23-26, with all works on display at the 60th annual Festival of the Arts.
For more information on Fresh Paint or Arts Council Oklahoma City, contact Dan Tigert via email.
