Norwalk Arts Commission approves two school‑area traffic box murals, awards artists $1,000 each

The Norwalk Arts Commission voted unanimously to approve two electrical‑box mural designs intended for locations near Marvin Elementary and Jefferson Elementary and authorized $1,000 awards to each artist to cover materials and installation costs.

The decision followed presentations from two artists. Isabella, who described a double‑sided Calf Pasture Beach concept for the box in front of Marvin Elementary, said the design shows both morning and evening scenes and highlights local wildlife and the site's history. "I love the city of Norwalk, and I love creating art that educates, inspires, and brings communities and people together," Isabella said during her presentation.

Jeremy, who proposed artwork for a box adjacent to Jefferson Elementary, described a childlike, school‑focused treatment that features Jefferson’s new jellyfish mascot along with oysters and horseshoe crabs from the local sound. "I did oysters, and horseshoe crabs, things that you would see at Calf Pasture Beach," Jeremy said, adding that he intended the final painted box to be brighter than the colored‑pencil sketch submitted.

Why it matters: the murals are part of a city initiative to beautify electrical boxes and highlight local history and schools. Commissioners discussed placement, color saturation and whether the two sides should present distinct views so that arriving and departing students see morning and evening scenes. Several commissioners urged artists to increase contrast and color so the work reads from a distance.

How the vote unfolded: Commissioner Melissa Matuska moved to approve Isabella’s design; Steve Russ seconded and the commission recorded a majority of ayes and completed the authorization. Later in the meeting Melissa moved to approve Jeremy’s design; Nori Gruden seconded and that motion also passed. Staff confirmed the next steps: Transportation, Parking & Mobility will prepare contracts, each artist will be awarded $1,000 to buy materials and install the artwork, and staff will request a W‑9 from each artist prior to payment.

What’s next: staff will send contract paperwork and W‑9 instructions to the artists and coordinate permit/installation logistics with the city department that manages street furniture. Commissioners said they expect minor design tweaks are acceptable before final painting as long as the overall concept is not materially changed.

Votes at a glance: the commission approved both designs by recorded roll calls during the meeting; named commissioners voted in favor and no formal abstentions were recorded for the two motions.

The commission moved on to other agenda items after the approvals.