The Town of Orangeville is inviting local artists to help brighten the community by submitting designs for the 2026 Utility Box Art Display Program. Submissions are now open for the opportunity to transform utility boxes and transformers into public art, with applications due by Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 12 p.m.
The program, which is supported by a partnership with Orangeville Hydro, is looking for creative work for up to four specific locations. These include boxes at 45 First Street and 60 First Street, as well as a transformer located in Fendley Park. Successful artists will receive $750 for each selected design.
For the installations at 45 and 60 First Street, the town is welcoming an open theme, allowing artists to draw inspiration from nature, local history, or the arts and culture scene. The Fendley Park location features a specific theme titled Community at play, which calls for vibrant, playful designs that appeal to all ages and reflect a sense of wonder and fun.
To be eligible, artists must be at least 18 years old and reside in Dufferin County. Town employees and members of the Economic Development and Culture Committee are not permitted to apply. The committee will review all submissions based on artistic excellence, the quality of the work, and how well the design fits the chosen location.
The Utility Box Art Display Program first began in 2016 with three initial installations in the downtown core. Since that time, the project has grown to include 36 wrapped utility boxes and 11 murals throughout the town. Councillor Joe Andrews, chair of the committee, noted that these new additions are expected to continue enhancing the community’s public art collection.
