Traffic Graffic Art Contest

Since 2014, Utility boxes throughout Federal Way have been wrapped with vinyl by numerous artists. Former Federal Way Arts Commission board chair Gary Gillespie launched the Utility Box Art Pilot Program in 2014 with a vision of making the city more fun and vibrant, and now the city has over 35 boxes wrapped with various themes. In 2019, we partnered with Federal Way Public Schools in an effort to showcase scholars and their art. Samantha Mendoza-Rojas from Decatur High School was selected for her "Starry Night" art. Her box can be seen on the corner of 320th and 11th Place South.

Federal Way Art Commission selection committee will select winning entries based on the following criteria:

1. Overall strength and visual appeal of design concept.

2. Relevance to project theme.

3. Artistic excellence and innovation.

4. Appropriateness for designated location, size, and shape. The illustration must fit the size and proportions of each box. 5. We encourage artists to submit their artwork even if specific sizing guidelines aren't provided initially. In the absence of sizing instructions, it's important to create designs that can be effortlessly resized or enlarged later, ensuring they align closely with the designated box.

The Federal Way Arts Commission is now accepting submissions from adult artists and high school scholars for innovative designs and family-oriented illustrations with bold shapes and bright, fun colors to decorate the our next utility box.

SEE OUR NEXT BOX LOCATION & BOX SIZING ONLINE WHEN AVAILABLE.

We are offering a $800 award for images used for the project!

Applicants are invited to submit up to three conceptual renderings for consideration. They may be a sketch or a completed illustration done with any media. The selection committee will evaluate then choose from the artwork submitted. Selected artists will be contacted to discuss the next step in getting art on the boxes. Final artwork will be digitized, transferred to vinyl, and installed on the utility box. Your artwork could be seen and enjoyed 24 hours a day for years as people drive by.

 

Questions? Please call 253-835-6928 or email Cassie.Swan@FederalWayWA.gov

Please submit the following:

• This application form (completed)
• 2-3 digital photos or illustrations of your artwork for the box (Artists will be notified if selected)

 

Project Specifications

• Applications of sumitted artwork will be kept for future consideration for upcoming utility boxes.
• Selected artists will be paid a stipend of $800 which gives the City of Federal Way rights to use the images as they see fit.
• Review and consideration will be given as utility boxes become available for wrap.

APPLICATIONS WILL BE REVIEWED ON AN ONGOING BASIS AS SPACE IS AVAILABLE

If applicant is under 18, please have a parent/guardian fill out the required information below.

I hereby certify that this entry is my original work. I understand that this art work will be used by the City of Federal Way and displayed in a public area for an undetermined time.

The Artist or Guardian agrees, by signing below and submitting this application, that while all submitted art is owned by the Artist, the images may be used by the City of Federal Way in the City's utility box vinyl art wrap Traffic Graffic program and any applicable promotional materials, such as t-shirts, mugs, keychains, posters, etc. (some of which may be sold to help fund future projects While the Artist retains ownership of all submitted art, the Artist agrees not to permit the selected art to be displayed publicly for any similar projects located within 15 miles of Federal Way.

Questions? Please call 253-835-6928 or email Cassie.Swan@FederalWayWA.gov

This activity is not sponsored by the Federal Way Public Schools. The district assumes no responsibility for the conduct or safety during this activity. In consideration for the privilege to distribute these materials, the Federal Way Schools shall be held harmless from any cause of action, claim or Petition filed in any court arising out of the distribution of these materials, including costs, attorney's fees and judgments or awards.