Art-wrapped traffic signal boxes honouring healthcare workers installed across Hamilton

HAMILTON, ON - Fifteen artworks honouring and supporting Hamilton’s healthcare workers and the public they serve have been installed on select traffic signal boxes at major healthcare facilities across the city.

A volunteer citizen jury of healthcare workers, graphic designers and artists awarded the commissions to 15 artists after reviewing over 90 submissions based on the project theme of supporting healthcare workers, artistic excellence, ability to deter graffiti, and public comments.

The artworks range in style and original medium and are largely the work of emerging artists. Traffic Signal Box artists will receive remuneration of $650 for each design.

The artwork is printed on graffiti-resistant wraps and is anticipated to remain in place for 5 to 10 years. An online art map with box locations and artist statements for each artwork is available on the City of Hamilton website public art page.

Quick Facts

• This project is funded up to $20K by the Transportation and Operations and Maintenance Division and contributions of developers to the Downtown Hamilton Public Art Reserve.
• The City defines public art as art created by artists, or in collaboration with artists, through a public process and existing on publicly owned and accessible property.
• Public art helps strengthen the city’s visual identity, stimulates the economy, and enhances tourism and community pride.
• Since 2010, the City’s public art program has received over 655 artist proposals, consulted with over 9,300 members of the public and awarded 54 public art commissions.

“Healthcare professionals are the new heroes in the COVID-19 pandemic, as they strive to meet the unprecedented challenges associated with this crisis. These artworks are a powerful reminder of the strength of Hamilton’s arts scene and illustrates the inspirational work of our healthcare heroes in our city.”

Mayor Fred Eisenberger

“We’re thrilled to see these vibrant artworks installed at major healthcare facilities across Hamilton. We hope that during these challenging times, these images uplift our vital healthcare workers and the people they serve every day.”

Carrie Brooks-Joiner, Director, Tourism and Culture Division

Additional Resources

www.hamilton.ca/healthcaretrafficboxart
www.hamilton.ca/publicart