Open Call for Artists
Design a Public Art Utility Box
A public art utility box may soon be are around the corner. The Portland Police Department and the Public Art Committee, in conjunction with generous donations from NBT Bank and Port Property Management, announce an open call for artists. They are seeking designs to paint utility boxes. Five public art utility boxes will be designed in total throughout the city.
This utility box at Bramhall Square may become a work of public art.
An artists’ panel will review the submissions. They will select five artists to paint the designated utility boxes. The artwork is intended to beautify the city, increase civic participation and support the local arts community. According to the City the project mirrors successful efforts in other cities across the country, including Boston.
District 2 Councilor Spencer Thibodeau is excited that the program will “add a cool bit of culture to the City and deter graffiti.”
Spencer hinted that Bramhall Square may be a good spot for a public art utility box.
Proposals are due by 4:00 p.m. on July 15th of this year. Selected artists will receive a $300 stipend upon approval and completion of their box design. The funds for this project were donated to the Public Art Committee.
Artists are responsible for the cost of all materials to complete their designs. They are required to protect their artwork with a clear and washable sealant.
More information, including an application form is available at www.portlandmaine.gov/utilityboxart.
