RVAH2O, a public education initiative of the City of Richmond’s Department of Public Utilities (DPU), is seeking the talents of local artists ages 18 and up to help communicate the importance of keeping city storm drains litter-, leaf- and pollutant-free. The annual Storm Drain Art Project, which calls for artists to paint on city storm drains, is kicking off its fifth straight year. The deadline for submissions is Sunday, February 2, 2020, at 11:59 PM.
Twenty painted storm drains from previous contests currently adorn City sidewalks in Tredegar, Carytown, Northside, and Scott’s Addition. The City estimates that, each year, several thousand people walk by and view the drains. “Our goal is for artists to harness their talents to communicate a message that resonates with every Richmond citizen – that only rain should go down these drains,” reports Jenn Clarke, DPU’s stormwater outreach coordinator. “It’s creativity for a cause.”
This year’s chosen artists will paint their designs on storm drains in Shockoe Bottom. The art should reflect the goals of the RVA Clean Water Plan – the City’s five-year roadmap for reducing pollutant discharges into the James River, starting with wastewater, stormwater, and the combined sewer system. Artists are encouraged to think creatively and design a drain that will inspire Richmonders to keep our waterways clean.
An independent panel of judges from DPU will select four designs to be painted on designated drains in April 2020. Selected artists will receive a $400 stipend for their work and materials; DPU will provide non-slip paint, water and water tubs, and basic brushes.
Now in its fifth year, the RVAH2O Storm Drain Art Project has earned an award from the National Association of Clean Water Agencies and inspired similar programs in municipalities throughout the country. It has also earned recognition in two consecutive years from the Richmond Ad Club.
“We’re excited to continue this tradition for another year,” adds Clarke. “It’s a tremendous opportunity for local artists to display their work, and it’s an important environmental message for Richmond’s citizens and visitors.”
The Storm Drain Art Project is being conducted with permission from the Richmond Department of Public Works, the Richmond Public Art Commission, and the Richmond Planning Commission.
Visit RVAH2O.org for details. Submit art at http://www.RVAH2O.org/submit-art.
