City of Lacey opens window for second phase of utility box art project 

The City of Lacey is calling on artists to transform ordinary utility control boxes into colorful public artwork that celebrates local history and culture.  

Artists selected for the project will receive compensation, while their work will be featured in public spaces throughout the city. The submission deadline for Phase 2 of the Utility Box Art Wraps project is Dec. 30. 

The city has identified a number of people, places and groups as possible subjects, including Virgil S. Clarkson, Karen Fraser, Evergreen Ballroom, Lacey-Minsk Mazowiecki Sister City, and Chief Leschi and Quiemuth. 

Other subjects include Lt. Col. Barbara Nichols, Fred U. Harris Lodge No. 70, Jose “Luvva J” Gutierrez Jr., Barbara O’Neill, Lisa Brodoff and Lynn Grotsky, and the first women’s Olympic Marathon Trials.  

Artists can explore profiles and short videos about the featured subjects on the city's website. Artists may also propose another person, place or group through an optional section of the application. 

According to the city, the project aims to promote community identity and create a welcoming experience for the public. Selected artists will receive $300 upon completion of their work. Their pieces will also appear on the city's website. 

Artwork requirements 

Because the utility boxes are located in high traffic areas, the city is requesting bold, graphic artwork with large shapes visible from traffic lanes. Entries must include artwork for the front, back and sides of the box, and all panels must be in portrait orientation. 

Digital artwork requires 300 dots per square inch. Front and back panels require artwork measuring 55 inches high by 44 inches wide, while side panels require artwork measuring 55 inches high by 28 inches wide. Artists using traditional media may submit high resolution photographs of their work. 

There is no application fee. However, all submissions must be original and comply with copyright laws. Selected artists will also be required to sign an agreement with the city for use of their work. 

The agreement includes standard liability waivers and releases. The city may adjust artwork if needed to fit utility boxes, and text explaining the artwork and identifying the artist will appear on the side panels.  

Selection timeline 

An advisory board is tentatively scheduled to issue recommendations in January or February 2027. City council approval is expected in February or March 2027. 

Staff plans to notify all applicants of the results in March or April 2027. Installation of the vinyl wraps is scheduled for May or June, weather permitting. 

Full design guidelines, honoree profiles and the application form are available here.