DeKalb’s Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission (CCEC) is seeking photos and scans of paintings created by community members for use in public art throughout the  City. 

The images of the paintings will be used to create vinyl wraps which will be affixed on  utility boxes, turning the metal cabinets into works of art that promote a welcoming  environment in DeKalb. CCEC Chair Brad Hoey said the project will show off the creative  talents of DeKalb’s artists. 

“The City of DeKalb’s public art initiative continues to evolve, and the utility box project  has become a popular endeavor,” said Hoey. “The display of artwork on such a unique  canvas is a great way for artists to showcase their talent and creativity while adding color  and beauty throughout the community.” 

Submissions can come from all DeKalb community members including residents, current  or former students or faculty at DeKalb schools or Northern Illinois University and those  who work in the community or who are members of a nonprofit organization. Professional  and amateur artists can create a new piece of art to photograph or scan for the project or  use an existing piece. Submissions must be the artist’s own work. 

This is the CCEC’s third round of utility box artwork, which is part of ongoing public arts  initiatives to enhance aesthetics, promote civic pride and celebrate the community’s  diversity. Submissions will be evaluated in part on their incorporation of a welcoming  theme that conveys a sense of belonging. 

The full guidelines can be found in the Call for Artists on the City’s website at  cityofdekalb.com/1474/Utility-Box-Artwork. The online form to submit photos and scans  of the artwork can also be found there. Submissions are due by March 11.

A portion of the cost to fabricate and install the vinyl wraps will come from a T-Mobile  Hometown Grant awarded to the City for public art.