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San Jose Artist Michael Foley
out in the warm sun finishing
the latest Utility Box art |
This afternoon I was tipped off by
ThinkBiggerSanJose that another utility box at the corner of Hedding and the Alameda was getting "art-tified". So I took a walk down the Alameda and met freelance artist Michael Foley was as a few long hours from completing the latest of San Jose's growing number of utility boxes that have been turned into streetside canvas.
The painted utility boxes are now becoming quite popular with local residents. I just spotted a new one with a Rose Garden theme the other day. Also new in the area, in front of the old Andy's Pet Shop storefront is one with a canine theme.
I had a chance to talk with Michael about the art scene in San Jose, the Zero1 festival, good and not so good things happening in the city, and the difficulty of independent artist in the area to participate in community festivals.
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Tough work when the temperatures
begin to reach the 90's. |
The work has been commissioned by the Art Box Project. I didn't know but Michael explained that each box has a theme pertaining to the area. So he was given parameters from which to work in pertaining to history and transportation on the Alameda. So his painting will incorporate an old tram, a modern light rail trainset, some residents of the area from the 1920's or 1930's, along with more modern residents using their "banana pads".
Thanks for the blog, Carlos. What is cool about this project is that sponsors can indeed choose themes pertaining to their particular area OR give concept designs for the artist to work with.
ReplyDeleteGlad folks are enjoying the project!
Tina Morrill
Founder and Project Manager, Art Box Project SJ
This is such an excellent idea. In my neighborhood, the utility boxes used to be giant graffiti magnets. Those that have been "art-boxed" I never see vandalized anymore.
ReplyDeleteTina I recognize your name from the Northside list. Didn't realize you're the brains behind this. Good work!