Mills 50, in conjunction with the City of Orlando, desires to create a Public Art Project that is all encompassing and seeks entries for a public exhibition in Orlando with a juried selection process to choose the artists. The purpose of the project is to create an environment which depicts the community’s diversity, creativity, commerce and neighborhoods. This project will enhance the aesthetic of our community for all to enjoy.

Ten (10) City of Orlando transportation engineering metal utility boxes, located in Mills 50, will be transformed into “Art Boxes”. Dimensions of the larger boxes: 56″ high x 28.125″ deep x 40.25″ wide; smaller boxes: 49” high x 17” deep x 30” wide. Artwork must include all five (5) surfaces (four sides & top) of the utility box. All artwork must be oil based paint to protect from the sun and heat exposure as a result of the Central FL environment.

Entries are open to all two dimensional artists living in Orange and Seminole Counties. The characters “Mills 50” shall appear within all submittals. A five (5) point system based on overall aesthetics and design will be employed. One (1) point will be deducted if “Mills 50” is omitted from the submission. One (1) bonus point will be awarded for local artists, i.e, a business within the District boundaries or a resident living within three (3) miles of the intersection of Mills and 50. The judging panel will determine which selected artist paints which cabinet. Each artist may paint only a single box but may make more than one submission.

Sketches and/or slides must be mailed to Mills 50, 1200 Weber Street, Orlando, FL 32803 or e-mailed to: director@mills50.org, no later than Friday, April 29. Please include a self-addressed, stamped envelope if sketches and/or slides are to be returned.

Mills 50 will provide paint & materials, up to $100, plus a $100 gift certificate for each of the selected artists. Artist may exceed the paint & materials cost, but will not be reimbursed by Mills 50 for any costs exceeding $100.00.

Judging will occur the week of May 1; selected artists will be contacted by Wednesday, May 11.  Boxes will be painted May 20 & May 21.  All must be completed by Sunday, May 22.

Following are links to other Art Districts and their projects:

http://theboulevard.org/ArtDistrict/boulevardartdistrict_home.htm http://www.somervilleartscouncil.org/programs/switchbox/index.html http://www.downtownelcajon.com/arts_culture.shtml