Call to Artists

“Project: Box Art” to beautify Downtown streetscape with mini murals

The Oxnard Downtown Management District (ODMD) invites artists to add “curb appeal” to Downtown streets by creating mini murals on utility boxes.

The pilot public art project aims to transform traffic signal control cabinets (utility boxes) at various intersections within the district into vibrant and provocative works of art.

“Utility Box art is a proven and easy way to add interest to the streetscape,” said Abel Magana, Executive Director of the ODMD, the property owners’ association that is funding the program. “Public art creates a sense of place and civic pride plus it has the added benefit of reducing graffiti. We’re not the first to use utility boxes as a canvas but we’re going to show our unique Oxnard style and creativity.”

With cooperation from the City of Oxnard, the ODMD has identified 5 high-profile locations for the first phase of art installations. Artists are asked to submit a concept proposal using their personal expression of the theme “Cultural Connections.”

Proposed art will be evaluated by a panel comprised of Downtown stakeholders and local artists. Winning proposals will be awarded a $300 artist honorarium plus a $100 voucher for the purchase of paints and materials. Graphic designers may also submit work that may be printed and applied as a vinyl wrap.

To apply, please review the Call for Artists (PDF) and submit an application as instructed. Program open as long as there are boxes available to paint. Email to media@downtownoxnard.org, or by mail or in-person to the ODMD offices at 519 South C Street, Oxnard.