South Cape Utility Box Beautification 2025

The Community Redevelopment Agency seeks to commission artists to submit artwork to enhance utility boxes along SE 47th Terrace in the South Cape Entertainment District. The ideal artwork will create visual interest for the enhanced streetscape and pedestrian pathways. Artists are invited to submit artwork that includes a variety of colors, designs, and details to be placed as wraps on utility boxes. This project will escalate the aesthetic of South Cape's scenery and incorporate the arts into everyday life for both residents and visitors.

Selected artists will receive a $500.00 artist stipend for each artwork selected. Payment will be made upon selection of artwork by committee, with a 4–6-week processing period for notification and payment. Selected artists will be required to complete a City of Cape Coral vendor registration in order to receive payment. Finalists must submit a high-resolution digital rendering of their design (300 DPI or higher) to city staff within 30 days of selection. The design will be printed on vinyl and professionally installed on a utility box. Artists are not responsible for printing or installation.

Artwork must be original and submitted digitally in landscape or panoramic format (wider than high). Acceptable artwork includes photography, drawing, painting, and digital artwork. Artwork should not include any copyright imagery, licensed products, or movie characters. Submission themes include nightlife atmosphere, Cape Coral culture, native plants, native animals, natural environment, Cape Coral history, abstract artwork, and non-representational work. The Community Redevelopment Agency Commissioners will review each artist's statement of intent and images, rating each artwork based on originality, artistic excellence, innovation, concept, and cultural connection to the community. Only one artwork will be selected per artist.

Eligibility: Artists must be 18 years or older and reside in Southwest Florida, including Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry, Lee, and Sarasota counties. Artists can submit up to three complete pieces of art. Submit contact information, a statement of intent (maximum 1,000 words), and images through CAFÉ (www.callforentry.org) at no charge. Images must be in .JPG format. Contact Samantha A. Ellis, Recreation Program Supervisor, at [email protected] or 239-242-3800 for questions.