In 2015 representatives from the Coronado Friends of the Library (FOL) approached the Coronado Cultural Arts Commission regarding a project to engage local students to "artistically decorate" utility boxes along Orange Avenue (SR75). During Coronado's 125 Anniversary Celebration a project took shape to wrap fourteen utility boxes along our community's main thoroughfare. As the project was developed it was determined that graphic wraps were the best method of accomplishing this installation for many reasons. Wraps are the preferred method for many reasons:
- Durability
- Ease of Replacement/Repair
- Accurate execution of reviewed artwork
- Artist Safety
- Life of Wrap is three to five years on average making this is a “Temporary” Public Art installation
Also, upon the end of the wraps lifetime, it can be easily removed. Upon removal, the box can be re-wrapped or left in its original condition.
In a collaboration between the Coronado Unified School District and the Coronado Cultural Arts
Funding for this public art project was accomplished through the generous donations of several sponsors including the Pastor Foundation, the Coronado Public Library Friends of the Library organization, the Coronado Unified School District and the City of Coronado. The Cultural Arts commission goals for Art Outside the Box is to inspire and promote Coronado's amazing student artists while turning generic utility boxes into works of art.
The project is divided into two phases. Phase one includes eight boxes located along Orange Avenue from Third Avenue to Avenida Las Arenas. The utility boxes are owned and operated by Caltrans and are located at corners where traffic signals are located
The remaining six boxes located on the Silver Strand were completed in spring 2019 and dedicated in March 2019. They feature photography of three artists, Brian Lippe, Daron Case and Jody Esquer.
The artist-designed wraps were applied using a standard graphic-film and installation method. Artists used a variety of media in their designs and took into consideration their location when developing the box's themes. All box designs were juried twice by a panel comprised of art professionals. Final designs were recommended for approval to the Coronado City Council and Caltrans.