Utility Box Art Project - Phase 4

Space has a unique way of igniting curiosity and inspiring creativity. Whether it’s the brilliance of distant stars, the sweeping colors of galaxies, the bold spirit of space exploration, or the simple joy of looking up at the night sky, space connects people of all ages through shared wonder. This theme celebrates that sense of imagination, discovery, and possibility.

Earlier this year, the Artemis II mission marked humanity’s return to crewed lunar exploration. The mission reminded us how space has the power to bring people together. Millions watched in shared excitement as astronauts charted new territory and took the next step towards furthering human exploration of the Moon. That collective sense of hope, unity, and curiosity reflects exactly what this theme aims to capture — the idea that space exploration inspires us, connects us, and invites everyone to dream bigger.

From sparkling constellations and swirling nebulae to spacecraft, planets, or abstract interpretations of the cosmos, artists are encouraged to showcase the vast beauty and boundless potential of the universe. Space reminds us that even in our daily routines here in Hurst, there is a world of inspiration just overhead — infinite, colorful, and waiting to be explored.

The space theme invites artists to dream big, think boldly, and bring a sense of cosmic adventure to our streets. Whether your design is realistic, whimsical, futuristic, or completely abstract, this phase promises to add a truly out-of-this-world vibrancy to Hurst’s public spaces.

Artists are encouraged to create bold, colorful designs that reflect the theme’s spirit and enhance the surrounding area. Proposals may include:

• Representations of planets, stars, galaxies, or other celestial elements
• Imagery inspired by astronomy, exploration, or futuristic concepts
• Creative interpretations that capture the feeling or mystery of space
• Whimsical or imaginative depictions related to the possibility of extraterrestrial life or other fun cosmic mysteries
• Abstract artwork that evokes motion, depth, or comic energy

• All designs should be the original work of the artist. AI-generated designs are not considered original artwork.
• Designs should not include any trademarks, brands, or any sort of advertisements.
• Artists should create the design to flow across all faces of the utility box and reflect a unified work of art. Please note that designs that include large patterns and/or bright, bold colors work best on the boxes.
• The design should feature minimal or no print, as it can distract drivers.

Artwork must not contain the following:

• Political statements or persons
• Racial discrimination
• Religious references, symbols, or numbers
• Copyrighted or trademarked material
• Corporate or organizational branding

The City will pay selected artists a stipend of $250 for their work being selected for inclusion in this project. Payments will be made once the City liaison has received approved works.

 The number of utility boxes and locations is dependent on submissions.

Winning entries will be chosen based on creativity, craftsmanship, theme adherence, and public display appropriateness.

Artists of all ages residing in DFW are encouraged to participate, with preference given to Hurst residents. Join us in celebrating the animals that make Hurst a unique and thriving community!

A selection committee will screen proposals for completeness, and the committee will notify winners via email and/or phone.

Winning designs will remain on the assigned utility box for a minimum of three years. Should damage occur to the box before then, the City will decide whether the same design will be reinstalled. After three years, if the integrity of the wrap starts to fade, damage to the box occurs, or a new box is installed, a new design will be added to the box.

The deadline for submissions is September 7, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Artists should complete the submission form linked below.

If you propose a specific location/box for your design, please put the location information in the submission form. But please be aware that a selection committee will make the final decision on which design goes where. Also, please note that if you propose a location for your artwork, it must be a utility box location not currently wrapped with artwork.

 All utility boxes will be vinyl-wrapped based on winning designs. Entries can be in the form of a photograph, a photograph of a painting or drawing, or digital artwork. Artists should submit entries in one of the following formats:

• Photographs of paintings or work created by hand should be at least 300 dpi.
• Artists should submit digital work in vector files.
• High-resolution PDFs are preferred.

Apply here!

Should you have a problem uploading your file, please email Hannah Ditgen at hditgen@hursttx.gov. If files are too large to submit via the website or email, artists may deliver a USB storage drive to the Community Services Administration office at the Hurst Public Library at 901 Precinct Line Road, Hurst, TX 76053.