Some utility boxes along the Rotary Trail in Courtenay got a fresh new look this past fall thanks to the work of local artists.
The transformation of the plain metal boxes was a collaboration between the City of Courtenay and the Comox Valley Community Arts Council.
The project has numerous benefits for the community, says Dallas Stevenson, executive director of the Comox Valley Arts Council.
“The painted boxes energize public areas, create a feeling of pride in our community, create dialogue, and engage people of all ages.”
The painted boxes have another important benefit: they deter graffiti and vandalism, as taggers generally do not damage artwork.
The work features paintings of sunflowers and the coastline by Grace Wolff at 17th St. and the railway line. This utility box is part of the recently completed portion of the Rotary Trail that extends from 17th to 21st streets.
Also featured is a painting of dragonflies by Bev Byerley on 26th Street at the railway line. This location will be part of the Rotary Trail as the next phase gets built in 2014.
The newly painted boxes join a number of other utility boxes painted in Courtenay in previous years.
For more information on utility box artwork, contact the City of Courtenay, Community Services, at 250-334-4441.
— City of Courtenay