-
(Photo/Contributed) An example of artwork on a utility box in the City of San Angelo. The City of Breckenridge is conducting a public art contest open to local artists and BHS students. -
(Photo/Contributed) An example of artwork on a utility box at a city intersection. The City of Breckenridge is conducting a public art contest open to local artists and BHS students.
The City of Breckenridge is inviting local artists and students to help transform downtown infrastructure into vibrant public art, in alignment with its strategic plan to promote beautification and community pride.
In partnership with the Breckenridge Downtown Development Council, the Chamber of Commerce, the Breckenridge Fine Arts Center and with the consent of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), the city has launched a Public Art Contest to cover four utility structures with original artwork. The selected locations include signalization utility boxes at Highway 180/Highway 183, Highway 183/Court St., Highway 180/FM 3099 and the utility rock at Foundation Park.
The contest theme, “Celebrate Breckenridge Heritage,” encourages artists to reflect on the city’s cultural and historical identity through visual storytelling.
“We are excited about this contest. It’s a great partnership project,” Breckenridge City Manager Cynthia Northrop said. “A lot of cities are doing this type of public art, with a type of utility boxes, with an emphasis on downtown beautification.”
Northrop added that the artwork that is selected as winners of the contest will be on display for five years before they redo the contest.
The contest is open to all Breckenridge area artists and Breckenridge High School students. Entries are being accepted through Tuesday, Sept. 30 by 5 p.m. A $25 entry fee applies, but is waived for BHS students. All participants must sign a release granting permission for their artwork to be used.
Prizes will be awarded in two categories. BHS students will compete for a $500 scholarship, with the winning design displayed at Hwy 180/Court. Local artists will vie for cash prizes and public display opportunities: $200 for first place (Hwy 180/Hwy 183), $150 for second (Hwy 180/FM 3099) and $100 for third (Foundation Park).
Judging will be coordinated by the Breckenridge Fine Arts Center, with panelists to be announced.
Submissions should be delivered to City Hall at 105 N. Rose Street. For full contest details go to breckenridgetx.gov/about/public_art_contest.php.
