Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District launches Utility Box Art Project – 2026 “Heart of Marin” – CALL TO ARTISTS
Utility Box Painting Program returns to San Rafael!
The Downtown San Rafael Business Improvement District (BID) is proud to launch a permanent Utility Box Art Program, transforming our Downtown Traffic boxes into public art!
What:
The BID Utility Box Art Program invites local artists to design and paint utility boxes throughout Downtown San Rafael. This program creates a permanent, rotating gallery in the public realm, adding color, character, and visual interest to our streets.
Why:
This initiative is designed to:
- Beautify Downtown San Rafael through accessible public art
- Support and showcase local artists
- Deter graffiti through creative activation of utility infrastructure
- Strengthen community identity and pride
Program Overview:
Selected artists will be commissioned to create original, site-specific designs for utility boxes located throughout the BID district. The BID will manage the program, including artist selection, approvals, and coordination with the City of San Rafael.
- Artists receive a stipend for their work ($1300)
- Designs must be original and appropriate for public display
- Selected artists will work with the BID through the approval process (including City review as needed)
Locations:
Utility boxes are located throughout Downtown San Rafael within the BID boundaries (primarily along Fourth Street and key intersections). Final locations will be shared with selected artists.
Timeline (subject to change):
- April 10: Announcement and distribution of Call for Artists
- May 11: Deadline for receipt of art proposals
- May 12: All submissions reviewed and finalists selected
- May 13: Final Artists asked to submit final proposals for approval
- May 20: Art design finalized and sent to Public Art Review Board for approval
- July 15: PARB meeting to review designs
- August: Approved by City Council
- August 1: Box preparation
- August 15 – September 15: Art installations
- September 15: Painting Completion Deadline
- October 1: Anti graffiti removal applied
- October 9: 2nd Friday Art Walk in October artist opening!
Selection Criteria:
Applications will be reviewed based on:
- Artistic quality and originality
- Ability to execute large-scale outdoor work
- Appropriateness for a public, community-facing setting
- Alignment with Downtown San Rafael’s vibrancy and identity
How to Apply:
Artists can submit concept proposals, past work samples, and qualifications through the BID’s online application.
