Carrollton is on the hunt for its next artistic wave, with the People's Choice component of its second annual Storm Drain Art Contest open for public voting until March 10, as reported by the City of Carrollton.
The City earlier invited artists from Carrollton's folds, and the wider DFW area to submit designs that speak to pertinent themes, including the prevention of stormwater pollution, the safeguarding of drinking water, water conservation strategies, and the protection of natural habitats and, after the success of the first round which took place in Downtown Carrollton in March 2024, a selection committee has trimmed the field to a handful of finalists for the second run of the contest, as mentioned on the City's official website. Voting is a community affair, with the prize at stake being artistic dominion over one of the Pioneer Park water inlets—the voter-chosen People's Choice Winner earns the right to pick their preferred storm drain canvas.
Alongside the environmental messaging and communal enrichment, this artistic initiative dubs a dual-purpose, tacking on an anti-vandalism measure. Carrollton's stormwater coordinator Andrea McClure pointed out, "Storm drain art is a unique opportunity to support art in the community as well as raise awareness about protecting our water supply," in hopes of an ongoing improvement to the urban visual and a reduction in graffiti as detailed on the city's press release.
Please cast your vote, make your voice heard, and let Carrollton’s streets reflect the creativity of its community until voting closes at 11:59 p.m. on March 10. After all, a community thrives when it shares a vision for both preservation and beauty. The City provides all the necessary supplies, including eco-friendly paint and safety gear, and prepares each site with a power wash and primer before the artists begin. Finally, according to the City of Carrollton's announcement, a sealing coat is applied to preserve the artwork.
