New Artist Opportunity at the Central Coast Zoo!

The City of Atascadero and the Central Coast Zoo are inviting local artists to participate in a new Qualified Artist Opportunity designed to showcase local creativity and bring unique and inspired artwork of the Zoo’s animal residents.

Beginning in November 2026, this pilot program will provide one selected local artist with the opportunity to feature their original artwork in the Central Coast Zoo Gift Shop through a variety of retail merchandise. The program aims to connect local artistic talent with the Zoo’s distinctive animal residents while offering visitors a unique way to take home a piece of their Zoo experience.

Artists are encouraged to submit original artwork featuring specific animals that call the Central Coast Zoo home. Selected artwork may be reproduced on a variety of merchandise, including greeting cards, writing pads, magnets, posters, tote bags, drinkware, apparel, and other gift shop items. The selected artists may also choose to provide an original piece of artwork for display in the Gift Shop.

Artwork must be professionally produced, appropriate for a family-friendly environment, and feature or be inspired by animals in the Central Coast Zoo. AI-generated artwork will not be accepted. The artist will be required to meet applicable City insurance, licensing, and contracting requirements.

All proposals must be received no later than Friday, November 6, 2026. Artists may submit proposals electronically, in person or by mail to Terrie Banish, Director of Community Services & Promotions, City of Atascadero, 6500 Palma Ave., Atascadero, CA 93422. For additional information or to request proposal materials, contact Terrie Banish at (805) 470-3490 or tbanish@atascadero.org.

For more information about the Central Coast Zoo, visit the Central Coast Zoo website or call (805) 461-5080. The Zoo is located at Atascadero Lake Park on Hwy 41/Morro Road, about 1 mile west of Hwy 101.