DeKalb artists are encouraged to help celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration  of Independence with the creation of special Paint-A-Plugs, while past Paint-A-Plug artists  are encouraged to touch up their works of art. 

The City of DeKalb and its Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission (CCEC) have  opened the application period for this year’s Paint-A-Plug program. Paint-A-Plug is the  City’s longstanding public arts initiative inviting artists of all levels of expertise to paint a  fire hydrant and transform it into a work of art. 

This year’s Paint-A-Plug program coincides with preparations for Illinois America 250, the  state’s campaign to mark America’s Semiquincentennial in 2026. As the nation, state and  City celebrate 250 years of independence, CCEC Chair Brad Hoey said Paint-A-Plug  artists are encouraged to use the nation’s birthday as the theme for Paint-A-Plug  creations. 

“I am excited that we are able to integrate the Paint-A-Plug program within DeKalb’s plans  to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence,”  said Hoey. “Our community’s namesake – Baron de Kalb – was a hero of the American  Revolutionary War, and I hope local artists will embrace the opportunity to apply historical  and/or patriotic themes to their public art projects over the next year.” 

Some theme ideas include patriotism, independence, historic figures and achievements  and celebrations of the nation’s rich cultural heritage. 

Incorporation of a semiquincentennial theme is not a requirement to participate in Paint A-Plug. As in previous year’s, community members are welcome to submit designs using  any theme that helps beautify DeKalb. The application can be found at  cityofdekalb.com/paintaplug. The deadline for completing Paint-A-Plug projects is Nov 1.

Paint-A-Plug started in 2017, and with the passage of time, some of the earliest painted  hydrants are beginning to show their age as colors fade and paint chips away. The artists  behind these hydrants are encouraged to check on the condition of their artwork and, if  needed, contact the City at paintaplug@cityofdekalb.com to arrange a time to touch up  the hydrant. Unfortunately, hydrants that are not maintained must be return to their  original red color.