Musikfest 2026 poster reflects America 250
ArtsQuest has unveiled the Musikfest 2026 poster created by painter and illustrator Doug Boehm.
The announcement was made during the second annual Jeff Parks Founders Society celebration, held Sept. 16. The event honors the legacy of ArtsQuest founder Jeffrey Parks and recognizes donors who support the program.
Boehm designed the Musikfest 2020 poster. He was unable to experience the full role of poster artist because of the pandemic.
“I had a lot of fun creating the 2020 poster, but of course, that was the year the world was turned upside down,” Boehm said.
“I was thrilled to be invited to design the 2026 poster. To be invited back to design a second poster during a historic year is such an honor.”
The 2026 design holds added significance as the nation prepares to celebrate America 250, the semi quincentennial of the United States. Boehm’s artwork reflects the joy of Musikfest and the unifying power of music during the historic year.
“My poster is a play on the great seal of the United States but with a unity theme centered around the topic of music,” said Boehm.
“The theme this year [2026] is ‘Music Unites’ and that message couldn’t be more needed right now. Let’s be real: we’re a little divided as a country.
“But when the music starts? Suddenly, we’re all singing the same song, dancing in the same street and feeling the same good vibes.
“That’s what I wanted the poster to capture: joy, energy and the power of music to bring us all together, no matter who we are or where we come from,” Boehm said.
The partnership America 250th Anniversary logo mark was designed by ArtsQuest Graphic Designer Morgan Fehnel.
“The Musikfest poster has always been more than just a piece of art. It’s a symbol of the festival’s energy, creativity and connection to community,” said Lisa Harms, ArtsQuest Senior Director of Visual Arts and Education.
“Inviting Doug back for 2026 felt especially meaningful as we celebrate America 250, and his design beautifully captures both the joy of Musikfest and the spirit of this historic moment,” Harms said.
Boehm painting the poster in black and white before adding color with photoshop.
A former Banana Factory Resident Artist, Boehm’s career has spanned galleries across the United States, with his personal work collected internationally in the U.S., United Kingdom, Australia and Taiwan. His illustrations have appeared in national publications and on tour posters.
The 2026 Musikfest poster continues a tradition of original artwork that celebrates the festival’s spirit and its connection to the community. Posters, Musikfest mugs and related merchandise will be available for purchase at the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks and online.
Musikfest is set for July 31 - Aug. 9, 2026.
Information: https://www.musikfest.org/