Call for Artists: Storm Drain Art Competition

2021 Call for artists

The Arts Council of York County (ACYC) is implementing a new public art project centered around local water heritage and water quality. The ACYC seeks design concepts from regional artists to enhance selected storm drains in Old Town Rock Hill. Selected artists will turn their concepts into reality in the form of small-scale, semi-permanent outdoor murals that adorn Old Town storm drains, raising awareness and educating the public about the effects of storm water runoff on water quality.

Why Storm Drains?

Storm drains lead directly to our waterways. Each time it rains, trash and pollutants on our streets are washed into storm drains and carried into our rivers, streams and lakes. Storm water pollution can significantly degrade our fish and wildlife habitat, our drinking water and recreational opportunities. By painting Rock Hill’s storm drains, we are reminding residents that our neighborhoods are all connected to our rivers, streams and lakes.

Location

Old Town Rock Hill

Two drains in areas with high foot traffic

Themes

Storm Water Pollution:

• Keep the Catawba Clean

• Don’t Clog the Catawba

• Only Rain Down the Drain

Environmental Protection: The importance of clean water

York County/Catawba River Ecosystems: Local wildlife/habitats and natural beauty

Timeline

Call for artists opens Friday, Oct. 16

Submission deadline Friday, Jan. 8, 2021

Selected artwork announced Friday, April 16, 2021

Artist paint drains and complete work April 22-24, 2021 

Artists may take up to three days for painting and to allow sufficient time for completion.

Eligibility 

Open to artists 18 and older who live in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg region. Preference will be given to artists who reside in York County.