Marion Arts Council Encourages Artists to Apply to Design Artwork for Utility Boxes

The City of Marion invites artists or artist teams to apply to design original artwork for three vinyl-wrapped utility boxes in Uptown Marion, along 7th Avenue in City Square Park. This public art initiative is led by the Marion Arts Council.

The selected artist or team will create site-responsive designs that are visually engaging from multiple viewpoints and appropriate for a public audience of all ages. The project's theme is biophilic design - artwork that connects people to nature, promotes health and wellness and encourages active living.

A total stipend of $2,100 will be provided to the selected artist for three approved final designs. The stipend is all-inclusive and covers the artist's design time, community engagement, research and preparation of print-ready digital files. The City will contract separately with a vendor to print and install the vinyl wraps using the artist's submitted files.

Applications are open to professional artists and artist teams. Full submission details are described in the artist call at www.cityofmarion.org/artscouncil. Applications must be submitted by 3 p.m. on Aug. 31, 2026.

The City of Marion reserves the right to amend the project scope and/or re-issue the Request for Qualifications (RFQ). Incomplete, late or emailed applications will not be considered.

Make your mark on Marion. Apply to bring vibrant, nature-inspired public art to the utility boxes in City Square Park.