Traffic signal boxes in Pierce County are set to become canvases for local artists, thanks to a community initiative rolled out by the Pierce County Arts Commission (PCAC). The commission has put out a call for artists within the county to submit designs that could turn these everyday street fixtures into vibrant pieces of public art. This isn't just a chance for a splash of color, it's an opportunity for artists to make a lasting mark on the community landscape.

The search for submissions is wide open, with both amateur and professional artists encouraged to apply. "We are thrilled to continue this successful program with a renewed call for artwork," Kari Rinn, Arts Specialist for the Pierce County Economic Development Department stated, according to an announcement posted on the county's official website. The program aims to not only beautify the streets but to also spark conversations and pride among residents.

There's a financial incentive too. Artists fortunate enough to have their designs chosen will get $500 per box. This fee includes the licensing rights, allowing the commission to replicate the artwork across multiple traffic signals and utility boxes in the area. Each artist has the freedom to submit up to three designs for consideration, broadening the potential for a diverse array of creative expressions.

Submissions are due by the summer solstice, with a hard cutoff time of 4:00 p.m. PST on Thursday, June 20. Potential participants are being pointed to an online application process, where they can get all the details and submit their work. According to the county's announcement, this initiative is more than just an art project; it’s a means to foster a stronger sense of community and engagement through the power of visual storytelling.

Those ready to bring color and conversation to Pierce County’s streets can find further information and apply directly on the Pierce County website. It’s a stroke of genius for an area looking to drive forward the importance of art in the public domain, and Pierce County traffic boxes are poised to become emblematic of the rich tapestry of talent nested within its borders. The community is evidently waiting with bated breath to see what creative journeys these artists will take them on, through the transformation of the mundane into the extraordinary.