City of Hamilton selects 32 artists to wrap Downtown utility boxes

HAMILTON, ON - A volunteer citizen jury has awarded commissions to Hamilton artist Charlit Floriano and 31 other artists for the design of vinyl wraps for utility boxes in Downtown Hamilton.

Charlit’s work entitled “Hamilton Enchanted” is a series of art works specifically designed to reflect the locations of the five electrical boxes they will be installed on. An additional 31 artists will have their designs installed on select traffic signal boxes at intersections throughout the downtown.

The Jury determined the winning proposals based on their response to the project goal and themes, appropriateness for Downtown Hamilton, artistic excellence, technical feasibility, and ability to deter graffiti and public comments. The Jury Report is available for review on the project website.

“Floriano’s work was the most unique of the proposals, as each design referenced the buildings and street life that surround its context in an inventive, playful and meaningful way.”

Utility Box Public Art Project Volunteer Jury

Traffic Signal Box artists will receive remuneration of $650 for each design while the Electrical box artist will receive remuneration of $4,000 for their series of five (5) designs.

The City will have the artwork printed on graffiti-resistant wraps and installed this fall. It is anticipated the art work will remain in place for 5 to 10 years. An on-line map with box locations and artist statements for each work is planned to launch this October.

Quick Facts

• This project is funded up to 90K by contributions to the Downtown Hamilton Public Art Reserve from downtown developers.
• 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 474 artist proposals, consulted with over 8,185 members of the public and awarded 52 public art commissions. 

Resources

www.hamilton.ca/trafficboxpublicart
www.hamilton.ca/electricalboxpublicart
[email protected],
905-546-2424 ext. 6281
Digital images of the art works are available upon request