ARTonBOXES: Call for artist submissions
Submit a proposal to transform traffic signal boxes into works of art
The City of Vaughan is committed to integrating art into the public realm by fostering a creative environment where artistic talent can flourish. That’s why we have put out a call for local emerging and established artists interested in contributing to the ARTonBOXES Program.
Ten original art designs themed around the ART of HEALING will be selected for installation on traffic signal boxes around Vaughan. The notion of healing is completely open to artists’ interpretation and may be abstract or representational. Artists are encouraged to convey the theme through depictions that resonate with personal meaning or might generate reflection and dialogue in the public realm.
Artist submissions, which are due by Friday, Feb. 14, must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Artists should currently reside in Vaughan or the Greater Toronto Area.
- Artists must be at least 18 years of age.
- City of Vaughan employees are not eligible to apply.
- Artwork must be original and can be created in any medium – designs will be digitally translated for the vinyl wraps.
- Artists may submit only one proposal.
The Artist Call for Submissions Package provides artists with art design criteria, templates and curatorial direction to guide the concept and execution of their imagery to ensure it is appropriate for all viewers, respecting that traffic signal boxes are in the public realm.
Submissions must be received in full by the deadline to be considered and must include:
- Original art design file
- Design concept board
- Artist statement
- Artist biography
Submitted art designs will be evaluated on the strength of their originality to conceptualize “healing” through creative expression. Artwork will be evaluated by a curatorial assessment panel against the following criteria:
- Artistic Merit – artwork exhibits a high calibre of originality, creative concept and technical execution.
- Contribution to Urban Character – artwork animates streetscape locations with positive visual impact.
- Applicability – artwork translates successfully to the traffic signal box format with a suitably scaled design.
Artists whose designs are selected for the program will receive a cash award and their work will become inventoried as temporary public art assets in the Civic Art Collection of the Vaughan City-Wide Public Art Program for all to enjoy.
For eligibility, guidelines and online submission process details, head to visitvaughan.ca/ARTonBOXES.
The City of Vaughan is committed to integrating art into the public realm by fostering a creative environment where artistic talent can flourish. That’s why we have put out a call for local emerging and established artists interested in contributing to the ARTonBOXES Program.
Ten original art designs themed around the ART of HEALING will be selected for installation on traffic signal boxes around Vaughan. The notion of healing is completely open to artists’ interpretation and may be abstract or representational. Artists are encouraged to convey the theme through depictions that resonate with personal meaning or might generate reflection and dialogue in the public realm.
QUOTE
“Vaughan is a cultural mosaic of talented, diverse and creative people – and we’re calling on you to share your innovative visions of how we can bring our community to life! The City of Vaughan is dedicated to supporting artistic and cultural endeavours that add to our community’s spirit, diversity and sense of togetherness. The ARTonBOXES program contributes to our city’s urban character by beautifying public spaces in our neighbourhoods and animating high-traffic intersections across Vaughan. One of the greatest gifts we can share with future generations is our appreciation of the arts, which is a vital part of the diversity that enhances our city. Enriching people’s lives with art and cultural expression helps foster a welcoming, vibrant and inclusive society for all. I look forward to all the creative ideas we will receive through this program.”
- Mayor Steven Del Duca
QUICK FACTS
The ART of HEALING call for artist submissions is now accepting applications until Friday, Feb. 14.
Art designs selected for the ARTonBOXES program will be added as public art assets in the Civic Art Collection of the Vaughan City-Wide Public Art Program.
- In 2023, the City of Vaughan unveiled the Group of Seven REMIXED pilot for the ARTonBOXES traffic signal box art wrap program. Inspired by the iconic landscapes of members of the Group of Seven, 12 original art designs were commissioned for installation on boxes in high-density locations across all five wards of the city.
- The call for artist submissions builds on the successful program pilot and adoption of the 10-year ARTonBOXES Program Implementation Strategy, which aims to transform more than 100 traffic signal boxes city-wide between 2025 and 2034.
LEARN MORE
- City of Vaughan's website
- City of Vaughan's Economic Development department’s website
- June 6, 2023 Committee of the Whole (2) Report: ARTonBOXES Traffic Signal Box Program – The Group of Seven REMIXED Pilot Update (PDF)
- June 7, 2023 news release: Local artists to beautify Vaughan Streets
- July 12, 2023 public service announcement: Come see ARTonBOXES!
- Dec. 5, 2023 Committee of the Whole (2) Report: ARTonBOXES Program 10-year Implementation Strategy (PDF)
