Duluth's drab utility boxes are about to get a splash of color, courtesy of the local artistic community. The Duluth Public Arts Commission (DPAC) is on the lookout for submissions from artists to wrap one such utility box in a vibrant makeover. The initiative is part of the Utility Box Wrap Art Program, aiming to sprinkle some creativity across the city's neighborhoods while promoting geographic equity. With this program, artists are given the opportunity to have their work showcased in some of Duluth's most visible street corners.

Artists who are interested in brightening up the city's streets have until April 30 to submit their designs for consideration, with DPAC set to review submissions. The chosen artist, who can expect to be notified by May 24, will join the ranks of those like Alexa Carson and the duo of Aya Kawaguchi and BAM Students, whose designs already adorn utility boxes at Woodland Ave & 8th St E, and 27th Ave W & Superior St respectively. It's an open call, and DPAC encourages artists from all backgrounds to apply, potentially making one utility box a lot less of an eyesore.

Application details and more information about the program can be found on the DPAC's official webpage. The site serves as a hub for artists to apply online, and also get a grasp of what exactly the commission is searching for. Those with lingering questions can shoot an email to Tricia Hobbs, Senior Economic Developer, at [email protected] or Angie Stier, Economic Developer, at [email protected].

On the social media front, anyone looking for a dash of inspiration or simply curious about prior art-wrapped boxes can head over to Facebook. There, photos of the already completed projects are available, showing off the work of artists like Carson, and the team of Kawaguchi and students. These glimpses into past successes may just stir the pot of creativity for aspiring applicants.