I was assigned two utility boxes by the City of Franklin, Massachusetts, to paint and enhance the local landscape. Each project had a unique theme, and I completed them in separate time frames.
The first utility box was flower-themed, aiming to add a splash of vibrant colors to the town. I chose a design with a variety of flowers, using bright, bold hues to create a lively, eye-catching scene. The goal was to bring joy and beauty to the area, brightening up the surroundings with nature's colors.
Once I completed the first utility box, I was assigned the second one, which had a cottage home theme. This design featured a cozy cottage surrounded by lush greenery, flowers, and nature. I used soft, welcoming colors to evoke a sense of warmth and tranquility, creating a peaceful, charming scene in the heart of Franklin.
As part of the utility box painting setup, please ensure the following preparations are made:
Furniture & Equipment:
A sturdy table and comfortable chair for painting and resting.
All required paints, brushes, rollers, and any other necessary painting supplies.
A water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the process.
A hat to protect yourself from the hot sun.
Site Selection:
Choose a shaded spot to set up the work area, ensuring optimal comfort and protection from direct sunlight.
Safety Measures:
Place orange cones around the painting area to clearly mark the work zone and alert pedestrians, ensuring they can avoid walking through the painted area.
This will help create a smooth and safe environment for both the artists and the public while the work is being done.
Planning: For each project, I took time to plan the theme and design that would best complement the community and the surroundings of the utility box.
Measurement & Sketching: I measured the boxes, made detailed sketches, and then transferred the designs onto the surface with accuracy.
Background Painting: After the town took care of cleaning and priming the boxes, I began painting the backgrounds, creating skies, grass, and basic structures.
Painting the Details: I added layers of paint to bring the themes to life. The first box had detailed flowers, while the second featured elements like the cottage and nature.
Final Details: I added intricate details to each box to enhance the depth and realism of the scenes, including textures, leaves, and petals.
Sign Your Painting: Signing your painting not only marks it as your unique creation but also adds a personal touch that honors your contribution to the community.
Protective Coating: After the artwork was complete, I applied a protective anti-graffiti coating to ensure the longevity of the designs.
Both utility boxes are now vibrant and beautiful additions to the town of Franklin, each reflecting a unique aspect of nature and creativity. It was a rewarding experience to contribute to the community through art, and I’m proud to have been a part of this initiative
!