The winners for the Utility Box Art Wrap Competition in October 2020 have been selected. Their artwork has been printed on vinyl wraps and installed on utility boxes at street corners in 10 different locations throughout the city.
“Taking something as functional as a utility box and turning it into an expression of the unique character of our community immediately adds vibrant energy to the street,” says Mayor Cathy Carlat. “Peoria is home to incredibly talented artists and their contributions to this project cannot be understated.”
After the success of the pilot program that started with four locations and artists, the city of Peoria expanded it to 10 more locations this year for a total of 14. Residents of all ages were asked to submit original artwork drawn or painted with crayons, colored pencils, paint and markers. A panel of professionals and the Peoria Arts Commission judged the entries based on whether the design represented Peoria’s unique qualities, was eye catching, and could effectively be transferred to a three-dimensional box wrap.
The following individuals and their artwork were selected:
• Kesmine Hickman
• Julie Larrson
• Robert Panzer
• Amanda Ratkovich
• Maddy Folk
• Sophie Gerald
• Andrew Gable
• Catherine Hoben
• Keith Rypkowski
• Mikayla Gable
• Honorable mentions included Dawn Sutherland, Ricky Ahrenberg, Lindsay Driver, Christine Grant, and Otto Uhrik.
“Our city leadership strongly supports the arts in our community and this competition created a path for residents to express themselves while enhancing our city streets,” says Peoria Arts and Events Manager Marylou Stephens. “The winners created some beautiful pieces and we’re excited for residents to see them.”
For more information about the competition and the winners, visit peoriaaz.gov/arts or follow Peoria arts and events on Facebook and Instagram @peoriaazarts.
