Project Paintbox

A CALL FOR LOCAL STUDENT ARTISTS

Bring Stockton’s creativity to the street

Stockton Beautiful, in partnership with the Stockton Arts Commission, invites student artists to transform traffic signal utility boxes into vibrant works of public art throughout Stockton.

Project Paintbox celebrates our neighborhoods, history, culture, and natural beauty while giving students a chance to leave a lasting mark on their community.

Download the application packet (PDF)

Painted utility box with bird and floral artwork
10 utility boxesPublic art locations throughout Stockton
$800 per artistFunding to help cover supplies and services
Local studentsIndividual artists and small teams welcome

Who can apply?

Student artists currently attending:

  • Stockton-area high schools
  • San Joaquin Delta College
  • University of the Pacific

Individual artists and small teams are encouraged to apply.

How artists are selected

A joint committee from Stockton Beautiful and the Stockton Arts Commission will review completed applications and artwork proposals. Ten artists will be selected.

Approved artists will be asked to enter into an agreement with Stockton Beautiful and the City of Stockton.

Artwork guidelines

Selected artists will create original artwork for one of ten traffic signal utility boxes. Designs must:

  • Celebrate Stockton and its community
  • Be appropriate for all ages
  • Be completely original
  • Exclude copyrighted material, trademarks, political messages, and offensive content

Completed artwork will become a long-term public art installation and the property of the City of Stockton.

Artist responsibilities

Selected artists will:

  • Prepare, sand, and prime the assigned signal box
  • Paint the box using acrylic paint
  • Apply a clear anti-graffiti protective coating
  • Keep vents, airflow openings, access panels, meters, and identification markings unobstructed

Artists may sign the completed box within a space no larger than 5 inches by 10 inches.

Artist compensation

Each selected artist will receive $800 from Stockton Beautiful to help cover project supplies and services.

How to apply

  1. Download the packet. Complete the Project Paintbox application.
  2. Prepare your proposal. Include a completed signal box design template and original concept artwork.
  3. Include permission if required. Applicants under 18 must include written permission from a parent or guardian.
  4. Mail your completed application. Send all required materials to the address below.

Stockton Beautiful
P.O. Box 4121
Stockton, CA 95204

Download the application packet (PDF)

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Our Mission

To increase community pride by augmenting Stockton's aesthetic appeal; promoting civic improvements which enhance, restore and preserve our city's beauty; and by recognizing individuals and institutions who contribute to this worthy endeavor.

Location

P.O. Box 4121
Stockton, CA 95204

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