Call for Artists

Beautify Kalispell Project

KALICO is seeking 8 artists to submit original works of art that will be turned into a vinyl wrap,  courtesy of Wrap Hive, to beautify 8 grey traffic signal boxes (TSB).  

You may have noticed the pops of color from Phase 1 of the project that have transformed the otherwise bare concrete streetscape where these traffic boxes reside. These downtown adornments have us brimming with excitement for the continuation of Beautify Kalispell Project, and we want your art!

The Beautify Kalispell Traffic Signal Box Project is designed to visually enhance the City of Kalispell by adding works of art to the streetscape on surfaces that are often targeted by unwanted tagging and graffiti. Artwork on TSBs functions as a form of communication to a moving audience with the goal of creating an inclusive and interesting environment.

Successful submissions will foster community pride and share all that the Flathead Valley has to offer in a bold, bright, and colorful expression. When designing the artwork, consider the relationship of the imagery to the traffic signal box and its users (pedestrians, commuters, and neighborhood citizens). Desired works should express life and experiences in Montana in a modern and contemporary way. Think beyond the Mountains and wildlife and show us new ways you see Montana in color, line, shape, design and imagination. Selected artists will be awarded $200. Artists may submit up to 3 works of art. 

ELIGIBILITY & REQUIREMENTS

NOTE: changes to design proportions may be required to accommodate site requirements.

Proposals are only open to those who meet all of the following criteria:

• NEW!! One Traffic box will be dedicated to artwork submitted by our youth (17 and under)

• Must be a resident of Flathead County, Lake County, or Glacier County. 

• Final artwork should be submitted in a high resolution print format (.jpg, .pdf, .psd, TIFF, .png)

• The minimum file size must be 1/4 size at 200dpi.

• The average final print size is 24”x36”, however we can typically modify any existing art to fit the format of the box. 

• Aesthetic suggestions:

  • Gently repeating pattern on the edges allows for the finished TSB to appear seamless and continuous

  • Bold / Bright color and details are what are seen best and understood quickly by passing motorists and pedestrians.

  • Due to the temperature sensitive controls housed in the box, dark colors are discouraged.

  • Designs MUST NOT contain any representations of traffic lights, signs, or signals.

• The design and installation of the vinyl wraps shall be family-friendly and not contain anything controversial, derogatory or polarizing – no nudity, sex, horror, profanity, racial slurs, innuendo, blasphemy, obscenity, violence, political or racist messaging. 

• Designs should be original works of art and may not promote any specific businesses or organizations or breach any intellectual property, trademarks, brands, images of illegal activity or involve the attachment of any object(s) to the box.

• All submissions (new and prior) will be considered. As a kudos to our first round participants we will offer gentle and structural feedback if you'd like, the ability to resubmit your piece, or submit 3 new pieces for consideration.

• Because part of this program aims to deter unwanted tagging and vandalism, designs should not mimic or take the style of graffiti or tagging.

• The finished artwork will be in the public domain and therefore may be subject to vandalism. Accordingly, artists should be thoughtful about having large open areas in the design -- for example, large areas of a single color might give a vandal the perfect spot to deface the work.

• Final authority to allow approved designs rests with the Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the City Council of Kalispell.

• DATES

• Submissions are due March 4, 2022 AT 11:59 PM.

• Submissions reviewed by selection committee
  March 8th - 11th.

• KALICO submits the application to Montana Department of Transportation by
  March 14, 2022.

• Applicants notified of their status by the end of April.

REVIEW PROCESS

Submissions will be reviewed by a selection committee (comprised of KALICO Board Members, Chamber of Commerce Members, and Members of Arts & Culture Council of Kalispell) that may choose to coordinate interviews with finalists. This committee is dedicated to selecting the best artwork and artists to represent this specific project.

This project is made possible through the Tourism Grant Program provided by the Montana Department of Commerce, in-kind donations from Discover Kalispell, Kalispell Downtown Association, and Wrap Hive.