Arts commission moves forward on mural call, signal‑box art and an indoor art‑supply share

Commission staff reported the public‑art program’s current activity: a mural call for artists (deadline extended to May 22), initial submissions, and follow‑up items including signal‑box art and an ‘art supply’ sharing box.

Staff (S1) said the mural call is posted on the city website and the commission has received one submission so far; the target is to complete the mural by the end of summer or before construction begins in mid‑August. Commissioners discussed the selection process—ranking submissions by commission and parks representatives and then reviewing finalists—and S1 said staff will compile submissions in a spreadsheet for committee review.

On signal boxes, staff noted Puget Sound Energy provided latitude/longitude data for boxes in the neighborhood and the commission discussed whether to wrap boxes or paint directly on them. Commissioners referenced other cities’ approaches (painting by local artists, seasonal mural days) and suggested a public day where local artists adopt and paint boxes.

The group also explored an 'art supply' sharing box concept. Staff recommended placing a monitored box inside the building (rather than an unattended outdoor box) to reduce vandalism and protect materials; commissioners discussed monitoring and where the box could be located so the item stays secure and accessible to the public.

Next steps: staff will share the mural submissions spreadsheet with the selection committee, continue outreach to mural artists, share the Puget Sound Energy mapping with the public‑art subcommittee and draft a plan for a monitored indoor art‑supply share.