PaintBox

This public art initiative gives emerging artists the opportunity to paint utility boxes across the City.

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The PaintBox program aims to beautify Boston's neighborhoods, introduce residents to the artists that live among them, and provide an opportunity for artists looking to enter the field of public art. Selected artists paint the utility boxes with their original designs.

The PaintBox program is a collaboration between the Mayor's Office of Arts and Culture, the Boston Transportation Department, and Public Works.

NOTE: We are not accepting applications for PaintBox at this time. Please follow us on social media (@artsinboton) or sign up for our newsletter to be the first to know when we reopen applications. Keep reading to learn about PaintBox projects from past years.

About the Program

The program

The goal of the PaintBox program, first launched in 2008, is to beautify Boston's neighborhoods, introduce residents to the artists that live among them, and provide an opportunity for artists looking to enter the field of public art.

As the City continues to make big investments in public art through programs like A Canvas of Culture and Un-monument, PaintBox contributes to the vitality of Boston's public art landscape in a small but impactful way and reflects the diverse people, ideas, histories, and futures of everyday Bostonians.

PROJECT AWARD

Artists receive a $500 stipend for their project. They receive $200 upon approval of their application to cover the cost of supplies, and an additional $300 upon completion of the box.