Austin Youth Utility Box Art Project
Youth artists invited to design artwork for Austin utility boxes to beautify public spaces and combat graffiti. Submissions due Nov. 30, 2025.
Austin's Culture and Arts Commission is calling for area youth artists to participate in a community beautification project by designing artwork for utility boxes throughout the city. This initiative serves a dual purpose: providing a creative outlet for young artists while addressing graffiti issues in Austin. The project encourages youth to take ownership and pride in their community through legitimate artistic expression. A demonstration piece already exists at the corner of First Drive and Fifth Place NW, created by Lyle High School students from Chris Oftelie's class, showcasing the potential impact of this program. The commission believes this project could redirect youth who may have previously engaged in tagging toward positive artistic contributions. The artwork selected will be used to decorate utility boxes around Austin, creating lasting public art installations that enhance the visual appeal of the community. This opportunity allows young artists to showcase their talents in a public forum while contributing to the cultural landscape of Austin. The project emphasizes the importance of involving youth in community improvement efforts and providing constructive channels for creative expression.