Sioux Area Metro (SAM) and Via are excited to debut Sioux Falls’ first-ever Art Bus contest. The four selected winning designs will be professionally produced and wrapped onto SAM buses — where they will be a moving gallery to be seen by thousands in the community starting this spring! Learn more→
Timeline
- Submission period: February 20, 2026 – April 14, 2026
- Judging period: April 15, 2026 – April 30, 2026
- Announcement of contest winners: May 4, 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 30-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 30-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.
