Sidney, BC.; Since 2006, the Town of Sidney has been brightening drab utility boxes along the streets by wrapping them with stunning works of art. This year, the Utility Box Beautification Project installations feature four local First Nations artists whose work celebrates and brings Coast Salish art into public spaces in Sidney. The new wraps are located on utility boxes along Beacon Avenue between Second and Seventh Avenue.

The Project seeks to promote and celebrate established and emerging artists from the Saanich Peninsula, while supporting the Town’s beautification efforts. This year, participating established artists are Charles (Temosen) Elliott from the Tsartlip First Nation, and Doug LaFortune from Tsawout First Nation. Emerging artists include James Jimmy from Tseycum First Nation and Doug Horne from Tsawout First Nation.

Over the years, the Beautification Project has issued several calls to local artists and residents to submit art and designs to be displayed on utility boxes as well as several pump stations around town. To date, the Town has wrapped 40 utility boxes with a wide range of creative works and archival photos with themes relevant to Sidney and the beautiful surrounding area. The majority of the wraps are located on the public boulevard area throughout Downtown Sidney.

Primary funding for the Utility Box Beautification Project is provided by the Town, along with participation and sponsorship from local businesses and a BC Hydro grant program. This year, Van Isle Marina has generously sponsored Doug Horne’s “Hummingbird” piece.

For details about the artists, their artwork, and the utility box locations, please visit: www.sidney.ca/UtilityBoxBeautification. The Town of Sidney invites you to take in these new displays, while carefully abiding by provincial physical distancing orders.