North Adams Transforms Downtown Electrical Boxes into Public Art
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NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Ten electrical boxes throughout downtown North Adams have been transformed into vibrant works of public art as part of a new citywide beautification project.
The initiative, led by the city's Cultural District Committee, Public Arts Commission, City Councilor Andrew Fitch, and Mayor Jennifer Macksey, was completed in October 2024 after months of planning.
Local artists with strong ties to North Adams were invited to apply, and ten were selected through a competitive process. The artists were chosen and approved by the Cultural District Committee in August of this year. Although the artists were able to propose unique designs, they were chosen by members of the Cultural District Committee with final approval coming from the Mayor herself. Some of the qualifications included; appropriateness for all audiences, quality of art, and strength of the artists' connection to North Adams, among other categories.
The project was officially unveiled during October's First Friday celebration.
"We have had another successful collaboration in the arts community. This project emphasizes the individual artist's sense of expression and the beautiful city they thrive within. I am beyond ecstatic with the outcome and hope everyone can go out with their families and enjoy the art," said Mayor Macksey.
The decorated electrical boxes can be found at the following locations:
- River & Marshall Streets (Sunshine Park) – Misa Chappell
- Eagle & Main Streets – Zoë Marguerite Villane
- Marshall St. & St. Anthony Drive at MASS MoCA – Lucas Craze
- American Legion & Ashland Streets – Justin Timoney
- Eagle & Veteran's Drive near St. Joe #1 – Mark Jackson
- Eagle & Veteran's Drive near St. Joe #2 – Maximilian Poirot
- Main & Ashland Streets – Melissa Mendes
- Center & Holden Streets – Keith Bona
- Main & State Streets at Hotel Downstreet – Ivy Gifford-Blasi
- River & Eagle Streets – United Cerebral Palsy (UCP)
This marks the third consecutive year the city has undertaken a large-scale public art project, following last year's storefront banner initiative. The effort reflects an ongoing commitment to enhancing North Adams' downtown experience for both residents and visitors, stated a press release.
"The art our community members have added to our downtown electrical boxes is beautiful, uplifting, and a true gift to our city. I can’t imagine I only speak for myself when I say that I am grateful for these artists and the countless hours of work they put into the project," Fitch added. "The positive effects of their work will be seen, felt, and cherished for a long time."
Tags: public art,
