The City of Sterling Heights, a Detroit suburb known for its vibrant public art scene, is embarking on a unique project to infuse a mix of creativity and local pride into one of its functional structures – the Fire Station #1 clock tower. Artists in Michigan are having the chance to leave a lasting mark by designing new faces for the clock. As anyone with eyes and a heartbeat can see, the city is looking to replace two of the tower's clock faces with artistic designs that reflect the spirit of the local fire department.
Interested artists will need to submit a design that integrates elements of the Sterling Heights Fire Department, possibly including inspiration from the Fire Patch or the Fireman and Child Statue situated proudly in front of Fire Station #1. The selected designs, intended to blend into the streetscape, will glow against the night sky, being backlit for round-the-clock admiration. According to the City of Sterling Heights, submissions must not feature any vulgarity or nudity, ensuring the artwork remains suitable for all audiences, a reflection, indeed, of public service values.
This artistic opportunity isn't just a chance for local artists to exhibit their work; it comes with a $500 prize and public recognition. The chosen artist's design will find residence not only on the clock tower but also on the city's public art map and social media channels. A jury composed by the Arts Commission will critique and select the winning designs in their November meeting, which has had artists scrambling to get their applications ready before everyone’s favorite turkey-themed holiday.
