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City of Worcester, MA

Eric D. Batista
City Manager

Worcester Cultural Coalition, City of Worcester Launch WooBox Art Project with 37 Mini Murals

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 5/15/2025 3:50 pm

WORCESTER, Mass. – The City of Worcester Cultural Development Division, in partnership with the Worcester Cultural Coalition and the Department of Transportation and Mobility, announced Thursday the successful completion and installation of 37 new mini-murals across the city as part of the first round of the WooBox Art Project.

This citywide initiative transforms utility boxes into vibrant, eye-catching canvases that reflect Worcester’s rich history, diverse communities, and creative spirit. Through an open call in April 2024, artists and organizations from across Worcester were invited to submit original, community-inspired designs celebrating the theme of “Worcester’s Rich and Diverse Community.”

Each of the selected artists received a $750 honorarium per design. The designs were printed on protective, graffiti-resistant wraps that were installed on utility boxes throughout the city.

“Through the WooBox Art Project, we’ve created 37 new reasons to walk through Worcester with curiosity and pride,” said City of Worcester Cultural Development Officer Fabian Barracks. “This is just the beginning. We hope to continue this project through additional rounds until we’ve added public art to every utility box in the city.”

Submissions were reviewed by the Cultural Development Division and a group of local cultural leaders, including:

  • Juliet Feibel, Executive Director, ArtsWorcester
  • Penn Ruderman, Director, Office of Penn Ruderman Architects
  • Ché Anderson, Assistant Vice Chancellor for City & Community Relations, UMass Chan Medical School

The project reflects Worcester’s citywide Cultural Plan, which emphasizes creative placemaking, equitable access to the arts, and investment in local artists. Five boxes are dedicated to honoring Worcester’s Poet Laureates and are located around City Hall. All utility boxes include QR codes linking to an online art map featuring the artwork and artist bios.

“It was stunning to see the variety of artists and approaches to transform mundane utility boxes into something special,” said Ruderman. “I hope it serves as inspiration for more members of the community to go for it in the next round.”

Residents and visitors are encouraged to explore the city, find the WooBox murals, and share their favorites on social media. Community members are also reminded to respect the artwork and refrain from tagging or altering the boxes.

“These pieces belong to all of us,” added Barracks. “Let’s take pride in them and do our part to preserve their beauty.”

A digital map of the WooBox locations, featured artists, and more details can be found at WooBox Art Project | City of Worcester. The municipality’s public art map can be accessed at Worcester Public Art - Google My Maps.