Duarte Calls for Artists to Redefine Route 66 Through Public Artwork |
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(Image courtesy of City of Duarte IG)
The City of Duarte is making a bold creative statement along its stretch of historic Route 66.
A new call for artists has officially gone out, inviting local talent to transform mundane utility boxes into vibrant pieces of public artwork.
This initiative, the 2025 Utility Box Art Program, is a key part of the city's lead-up to the highly anticipated Route 66 centennial in 2026.
It's an ambitious effort to beautify the community while paying homage to the legendary Mother Road.
The theme for this year's program is “Duarte’s Route 66: Past, Present & Future,” a prompt encouraging artists to explore the city's deep connection to the iconic American highway.
This project aims to turn everyday infrastructure into a dynamic, open-air gallery.
Twenty-one utility boxes at fifteen different locations are slated for this artistic makeover, promising a significant visual impact along Huntington Drive.
The opportunity is open to all artists over 18 who live or work in Los Angeles County, from seasoned professionals to emerging student creators.
This inclusive approach ensures a diverse range of voices and styles will be represented.
Artists are asked to channel their creativity into specific subthemes depending on the type of utility box.
Designs for traffic controllers can focus on “Faces & People” or “Pop Culture & Entertainment,” while irrigation control boxes are reserved for “Landscapes.”
Selected artists will receive stipends for their work, with payments of $950 for a traffic controller and meter pedestal pair, $550 for a single meter pedestal, and $400 for an irrigation box.
The Duarte City Council will give final approval after a review by the Arts Ad Hoc Committee.
The selected artwork will be printed on durable vinyl wraps, with installation handled by a professional vendor.
This ensures the art is protected from the elements and relieves the artists of any logistical burdens.
All applications must be submitted online by the deadline of February 2, 2026.
The city's commitment to public art is a clear investment in the cultural fabric of the San Gabriel Valley.
This program is more than just decoration; it’s about storytelling and community pride, turning a simple commute down Route 66 into a memorable cultural experience.
This program is online-only, and all materials must be submitted through the CaFÉ website (www.CallforEntry.org) by February 2, 2026. Incomplete applications will not be considered. There is no cost to apply or to use the CaFÉ platform.
To access the application, visit www.CallforEntry.org, create a username and password, select “Find Calls,” and search for “City of Duarte Utility Box Art Program.”
For individuals who need special accommodations or have limited internet access, paper applications are available at Duarte City Hall (1600 Huntington Drive).
For full details on artwork requirements, eligibility, project guidelines, and site information, visit: |