Heber City launches mural initiative to transform utility boxes into public art

Two of the utility boxes beautified during the 2018 emPOWERment project as seen in October 2023. Photo: TownLift // Kirsten Kohlwey

HEBER CITY, Utah — In collaboration with the Heber Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Community Alliance for Main Street, the city has launched the Art in Public Places Power Box Initiative. The program invites artists to submit mural designs for utility boxes across Heber City in an effort to enhance the city’s visual landscape and strengthen its cultural identity.

The murals are intended to reflect the spirit of Heber and themes such as local wildlife, mountain scenery, outdoor recreation, historical imagery and community life. Artists are also encouraged to create visually striking pieces that double as social media-friendly photo opportunities.

Artists or teams selected for the project will be assigned Heber Light and Power boxes, which vary in size and include switch cabinets, junction boxes, and both single- and three-phase transformers. The boxes are made of painted metal or metal siding and typically measure between two and four feet in height and width. Artists must ensure any identifying numbers or lettering on the boxes remain visible and unobstructed.

Heber City will contribute up to $50 per project to offset the cost of paints and weatherproof coating. Artists are responsible for preparing the boxes and supplying all required materials, including gloss sealants.

For more information or to apply, click here.

Eligibility and how to apply

The program is open to all artists, with minors required to apply through a parent or guardian. Applications are currently open. To apply, artists must:

• Complete the online application form.
• Submit at least one previous work sample and references.
• Provide a detailed sketch or colored rendering of the proposed mural.

The city’s selection process will consider artistic quality, relevance to the project’s themes, and visual effectiveness at scale.

Questions about the application can be directed to Heber City’s Sherrie Hansen at shansen@heberut.gov or 435-657-7899.