Santa Maria is embracing a new age of public art and encouraging local artists to participate

SANTA MARIA, Calif. - The City of Santa Maria is embracing public art as a way to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors.

Part of it includes a large, new mural painted on panels and installed near the corner of Cook Street and Broadway next to Santa Maria City Hall.

The City Recreation and Parks Department is seeking artists of exceptional talent to assist in enhancing up to 15 traffic signal control boxes with captivating and inspiring imagery. 

This initiative provides a platform for artists to showcase their work to the community and have it seen by thousands of people passing by the utility boxes every day. 

The City is seeking artwork that reflects the social, cultural, and historical identity of the Santa Maria area.

For those whose artwork is chosen, each will receive a stipend of $1,000 and up to $250 reimbursement for material costs.

To apply, download the application and "Box Art" design template from the City's website at www.cityofsantamaria.org/recreation.

Or contact the City Recreation and Parks Department at (805) 925-0951, extension 2260.