ARTISTS INVITED TO JOIN THE AMHERST ELECTRICAL BOX MAKEOVER PROJECT 2020
One of several painted electric junction boxes in downtown Amherst, this one with the image of Robert Frost. Located at the intersection of Amity, Main and North Pleasant Streets. Photo: Art Keene
Source: Amherst Public Art Commission
Electrify Amherst! The Electrical Box Makeover Project 2020 continues to increase the presence of public art in Amherst and the Amherst Center Cultural District by inviting artists to create unique and imaginative paintings on designated utility boxes in one of three village areas in Amherst. The program was begun two years ago by the Amherst Public Art Commission.
“Electrify Amherst! 2020 builds upon the success of our 2018 and 2019 projects and continues to be a great opportunity to bring additional public art into Amherst,” said Art Commission member Amy Crawley. “It has proven to be a great way for artists and the Amherst community to connect, and continues Amherst’s growth as a public art community.”
This year, three selected artists will receive a stipend of $500 each.
Artists can submit proposals until August 1. The three selected artists will be determined by a 5-person jury that will consist of two members of the Amherst Public Art Commission, 1-2 downtown business owners, and 1-2 local artists.
Two previous projects showcased original designs painted by local artists Jeff Wrench, Kim Carlino and Vincent Frano in 2018 and Pamela Acosta, Lauren Anderson, and Melissa Pandina in 2019. Their designs were inspired by Amherst’s literary history, Amherst’s art and culture, organic imagery, and the State’s wildflowers.
Artists interested in submitting a proposal should visit http://www.amherstma.gov/electrifyamherst or email ElectrifyAmherst@amyacrawley.com