PaintBox program artworks in Boston, MA

Ever wondered why our city’s utility boxes are so colorful? Here’s the scoop.

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Cheers to more artwork around the city.

Photos via Jillian King, Emma Tavo, and Andres Giraldo

Have you ever passed by a utility box on your morning commute and wondered how it became a work of art? It’s all thanks to PaintBox , one of Boston’s initiatives to beautify the city.

The program is a collaboration between the Mayor’s Office of Arts and Culture, the Boston Transportation Department , and Public Works . It’s been around since 2008, allowing a space for local artists to leave their mark across the city.

Here are a few of the artists from the 2022 program that have left their creative stamp on Boston.

🎨 Jillian King | Jamaica Plain
Stop by Fessenden Street and Norfolk Street to see this artist’s interpretation of JP — complete with JP Honk and Porchfest , the Arnold Arboretum + Jamaica Pond.

🎨 Emma Tavolieri | Roxbury
Located on the corner Shawmut Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard, peep the adorable Boston Terrier on a hot pink backdrop.

🎨 Andres Giraldo | Allston-Brighton
Find vibrant mambo + salsa art at the corner of Cambridge and Gordon Streets. Pro tip: the artist encourages dancing by the box, taking a video, and posting it on social media to engage with the work.

🎨 Yami Salazar | Rose Kennedy Greenway
“Alliums in the Greenway,” located at the intersection of Atlantic Avenue and Milk Street, shows a girl sitting among greenery and flowers.

🎨 Likemind Design | Roxbury
The local mural company added some foodie flair to Washington Street and Melnea Cass Boulevard. Warning: don’t approach hungry.

Want to see even more fresh paint? Search the #paintboxboston on Instagram, or better yet, go for a stroll around your neighborhood and discover them for yourself.

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Sara is a Massachusetts native and Boston University alumna based in Somerville, MA. She has previously written for Static Media, Pure Wander Travel Blog, and South Shore Home, Life & Style Magazine. You can catch her dropping way too much money at local indie bookstores around Boston.
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