2022 Kent Traffic Signal Control Box Art

This cross-departmental partnership aims to curb graffiti and create a visually dynamic environment in Kent by incorporating artwork on city traffic controller cabinets. Artwork will be fabricated onto vinyl wraps and installed on eight selected cabinets. Artists will each create a design based on traffic controller cabinet specifications and locations to be provided. Designs that are representative of elements of the Kent community are encouraged. Artists will provide fabrication-ready designs; the Kent Arts Commission/City of Kent will coordinate and cover the cost of fabrication and installation.

Eight artists will be selected by an Artist Selection Panel established by the Kent Arts Commission. Each selected artist will develop an original artwork proposal to present to the Kent Arts Commission for final review. The proposal should include a narrative explanation of the concept and sketches, renderings, or digital illustrations representing the artist's concept. Selection criteria include quality of past work, suitability of work for traffic controller cabinet locations, and desire and capacity to consider Kent's unique community, history, and character.

Eligibility is open to professional and emerging visual artists residing in Washington State, working in any medium, so long as the final artwork can be translated and digitally reproduced on a two-dimensional vinyl wrap. The budget is $1,000 inclusive of design, research, travel, and applicable WA sales/use tax. Application requirements include an artist's statement, up to ten images of previous work with descriptions, and a resume. Timeline: Artists notified approximately May 6, 2022; artists create work May-June 2022; artists present proposals July 13, 2022; final work submitted August 1, 2022; fabrication and installation August-September 2022 (projected/weather dependent).