To confirm your participation, you must download, print, sign, and send the donation form to [email protected]
DOWNLOAD DONATION FORM
OR
mail it to:
Thumbprint Gallery
920 Kline Street
La Jolla, CA 92037
DOWNLOAD DONATION FORM
OR
mail it to:
Thumbprint Gallery
920 Kline Street
La Jolla, CA 92037
Share your vision and become part of a vibrant National City. You’re invited to contribute to the growing collection of public art through participating in the National City Utility Box Project. Find out what it means to share your creativity to beautify the streetscape of National City and transform a common utility box into a work of art for all to enjoy.
Artists will receive:
• Artist recognition via your signature/website/social media link on the utility box.
• Option to display signage to identify artist and project while painting the utility box
Policies and Guidelines
• Artists are responsible for prepping the utility box, painting the box, and cleaning up the area around their box.
• All artwork must be completed within two weeks of the start date.
• Scheduling is flexible. Artists may paint the utility box at their own leisure within the two week period.
Instructions for Painting
Once your participation is confirmed, we will send you a notification letter and contact you when a box is available to set up a painting timeframe. You have two weeks after the mutually determined start date to finish painting your utility box.
IMPORTANT
• For safety and security purposes, it is advised to paint in the daytime to avoid being questioned by residents and law enforcement.
• If possible, have a friend or family member accompany you to assist you and monitor your supplies in case you need to leave your box at any point to take a break.
• Do not paint over/obliterate any identification numbers/codes. Paint around them.
• Do not paint over keyholes or paint keyhole covers so that they cannot be opened.
• Do not obstruct any windows or viewing ports on the cabinet in any way.
• Be mindful of the wind and overspray if using spray paint and be aware of surrounding people and property.
• Artwork must be family friendly.
Notification of completion:
When you’ve finished painting your design, please advise Paul Ecdao.
FAQs
How do I participate in the National City Utility Box Project?
1. Submit no more than 3 image samples of your artwork to [email protected].
2. Once selected, log in and follow directions HERE.
3. Mutually agree to a start date.
4. Paint/wheatpaste/vinyl wrap assigned box.
*There is no need for followup as artists will be contacted according to utility box availability among other factors.
When will my artwork be reviewed and be notified that my artwork has been selected?
ASAP but please be aware that this process can be lengthy as we receive many submissions.
Who selects the artists/artwork?
Paul Ecdao
Are artists compensated?
We believe all artists should be paid for their work but the NCUBP is a community project where artists and organizers are donating time, effort, supplies, etc. to beautify the area. There may be a stipend for participating artists in the future but if you are seeking compensation, this is not the project for you.
What does the selection committee look for when selecting artwork?
Colorful, positive, family friendly, and preferably site specific artwork. Ideal artwork will use bright, vibrant colors and designs that stand out at a distance and cover the box completely. Images pertaining to violence, political views, etc will not be tolerated and will be buffed immediately.
Can I participate more than once?
Yes. It is possible for artists to participate more than once. While we try to incorporate as many different artists as possible throughout the project, we are always grateful for enthusiastic participants.
Can I paint at my leisure? Is there a fixed schedule?
Artists may paint according to their own schedule as long as the project is completed within two weeks of the start date.
Do I get to choose my utility box?
All boxes will be assigned by Paul Ecdao
Note:
Actual utility boxes vary in size and shape. Please be prepared to adjust your artwork to fit the box you are assigned. Thank you for your flexibility.
Please refer all business and resident inquiries to:
Audrey Denham
Recreation Superintendent
[email protected]
(619) 3364243