“(The art) creates public awareness around water health,” said Sunrise O’Mahoney, executive director of The Alliance.
The Alliance has put a call out to local artists, asking them to submit proposals for a mural they’d want to paint on a storm drain. Submissions must be made by Aug. 15. Each submission must be approved by a selection committee before artists get the go-ahead.
Mural designs must have a local theme with a message focused on protecting the environment and preventing water pollution. The message “Drains to the River” in English or Spanish needs to be incorporated somewhere into the design.
Although there are about 40 drains that could be painted, the final total will depend on how many projects are approved.
After the submissions are chosen, artists will receive a storm drain location, a photo of the drain they’ll paint and its exact dimensions.
Artists will take to the streets on Sept. 18 to start and finish their project during a 10-hour painting marathon. People of any age can paint, but anyone under 13 needs to be accompanied by an adult.
“It’s a volunteer event incorporating community work, art and outdoor education,” said O’Mahoney.
In October, the murals will then be featured as part of the First Friday art walk.
The project is a collaboration between the Watershed Alliance, the Uptown Village Association, Vancouver Downtown Association, the Clark County Mural Society and the Arnada, Esther Short and Hough neighborhood associations.
To get an more information or to download an application, visit: www.vancouverwatersheds.org.
