Norwalk arts commission approves Rowayton Elementary traffic-box mural by fifth-grade artist

The Norwalk Arts and Cultural Commission voted unanimously on May 6 to approve a design by fifth-grader Jagger Little for a traffic utility box at Rowayton Elementary School.

The commission’s approval covers the artwork as presented and authorizes the commission to provide paint and guidance on surface preparation and anti-graffiti sealing so the paint will adhere and not peel. Amanda Antunes, a Rowayton Elementary teacher who coordinated the student project, said the commission would supply materials and that she expected multiple fifth-grade students to participate in execution under school supervision.

The decision followed a short presentation in which Jagger described the artwork: “I made it how it is because we’re in Roway, and that’s right next to an ocean or the Long Island Sound, and there’s a lighthouse near Roway,” Jagger said. He told commissioners he chose a sunset so the sky would not visually merge with the water.

Commissioner Melissa Matuska moved to approve the design; Mark Allen seconded the motion. The roll-call vote recorded Brian Casper, Mark Allen, Bob Abriola, Melissa Matuska, Janae Sylvester and Nori Gruden voting aye; the motion passed unanimously.

Sabrina (staff member) explained the administrative steps: she confirmed the box is eligible to be painted, said the commission signs a contract with PMP to formalize approvals, and offered technical assistance to ensure the correct paint system and anti-graffiti clearcoat are used. Bob Abriola, who frequently advises on traffic-box projects, cautioned that older boxes require careful surface prep and sealing to avoid peeling and offered to inspect the box at 1 Rowayton Avenue to confirm condition before painting.

Antunes said she plans to coordinate student participation with Rowayton principal Dr. Cummings and suggested bringing out small groups of students with supervising teachers to add elements of the design toward Jagger’s overall composition.

The commission congratulated Jagger and said staff would follow up with the school on logistics, materials and a maintenance plan.

Budget and timing details for paint and sealing were not finalized at the meeting; commissioners said the commission would provide the paints and assistance and that any additional costs would be covered from the operating budget or a small capital allocation if needed.