City of Bellevue Seeking Artists for Utility Box Wraps Program

Bellevue, WALocal News

The City of Bellevue is inviting Eastside artists to design vibrant artwork for its Utility Box Wraps Program, aiming to enhance public spaces and transform mundane utility boxes into community art. This initiative is inspired by the success of a similar program in the BelRed Arts District, which garnered positive feedback from residents and businesses alike. Each artist will receive a stipend ranging from $800 to $1,100 for their contributions, with a total of 13 utility boxes to be wrapped in Downtown Bellevue. Manette Stamm, an arts program analyst, emphasizes the project's dual purpose of beautifying the urban landscape while providing local artists a platform to express their creativity. Interested artists must apply by December 8, 2021, and should be registered on the City of Bellevue's Eastside Artists Roster.

The program aims to create accessible public art that enriches the community’s outdoor experience and fosters local artistic engagement. Stamm notes that the project is designed to be nimble and efficient, requiring no new construction. By implementing such initiatives, Bellevue seeks to support artists and bring joy to the community during challenging times.

Related Articles

Vacancy on Arts Commission

Bellevue City Council seeks applicants to fill a vacancy on the Arts Commission, with a deadline for online applications set for May 23. The commission advises the council on cultural matters and supports local arts programs. The city encourages residents of diverse backgrounds to apply.

Council Roundup Office of Housing makes early progress

The City Council of Bellevue discussed the early progress of the newly established Office of Housing, which aims to enhance affordable housing initiatives. The council also reviewed a proposed 2026 sewer rate increase from King County that could raise rates by 198% over the next 20 years, prompting concerns about affordability for residents. Newly appointed councilmember Vishal Bhargava was sworn in during the meeting.

Bellevue named 2025 Frank Chopp Public Sector Champion by Housing Development Consortium

Bellevue received the 2025 Frank Chopp Public Sector Champion award for its commitment to affordable housing. The city launched an Office of Housing and updated its Comprehensive Plan to facilitate the construction of 35,000 homes over the next 20 years.