Downtown Encinitas Electrical Boxes Transformed by Local Artists

Editor's note: This content was produced by the Downtown Encinitas Main Street Association. 

Downtown Encinitas Electrical Boxes Transformed by Local Artists June 2013 – Over several weekends, three local artists painted SDG&E electrical boxes as part of Phase One for Encinitas 101 MainStreet’s Utility of Art Project. This beautification project enlisted the City of Encinitas Commission for the Arts to select proposals submitted from several artists to paint five boxes.

The goal of the Utility of Art Project is to enhance the ambiance of Downtown Encinitas with a public art gallery that will visually represent the culture of Encinitas. Once the collection is complete, residents and visitors will be able to marvel at unique art for years to come.

Four of the boxes are located on the north side of D Street by the NCTD station. Artist Monika Whisenhunt painted her “Happy Waves – Aquarium” on one box. This utility box was transformed into a surrealistic aquarium filled with happy, organic-shaped waves and fish. Artist Bryan Helfand painted his “Transformation” on three boxes. This triptych piece is comprised of calm dripping blues, flowing giant kelp and other worldly fish. Artist Bre Custodio painted her “Time to Relax” on the box in front of Solace & the Moonlight Lounge on E Street. This work was inspired by the San Diego sky, from the bright blue of a summer day to the burnt oranges of a September sunset, so that one can feel the strong vibes of a relaxing summer day no matter what the weather.

The artists had an enjoyable time painting the boxes while interacting with Encinitas residents and visitors admiring their works in progress. Whisenhunt stated, “I was ecstatic to learn first-hand, while painting on D Street on weekends, that my art truly illuminates feelings I desired to express. It was an amazing experience!” Custodio expressed her gratitude “for the opportunity to brighten up one of my favorite blocks in San Diego. E Street is one of my favorite summer time surf breaks, so the location has an emotional connection for me.” Helfand stated that painting these boxes “has been one of the most rewarding artistic experiences of my career. Encinitas is a great town and I couldn’t think of a better place to display my art for all to enjoy. I am truly thankful for being chosen as one of the featured artists.”

Phase One of this beautification project has already proven to be beneficial. “The feedback has been phenomenal from the community. We have received several inquiries from merchants and residents requesting the SDG&E electrical boxes near their storefront or home be painted. I am eager to execute Phase Two in 2014 and provide more artists with the opportunity to have their original work on display for the community,” stated Olivia Paccione, Encinitas 101 Program Assistant.

The Utility of Art Project was made possible with the support of SDG&E (Sempra Utilities) and generous supply donations from Crown Ace Hardware. The project was funded in part by the City of Encinitas and Mizel Family Foundation Community Grant Program.