Oswego Seeking Artists For Manhole Cover Art Designs

OSWEGO, IL — The Village of Oswego wants to spruce up its manhole covers with something a bit more visually appealing than bare iron — so it's asking artists to submit proposed designs to be used on covers throughout a portion of downtown.

The project is an early step in establishing a vibrant permanent public art collection in the village. That's been part of the mission of the Cultural Arts Commission, which has been laying the groundwork for several months, officials said, developing an aesthetic and guiding principles for the program.

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"It might seem an unusual site for a piece of art, but we're excited about the possibilities that might be out there to incorporate a little something unexpected in our downtown," said the village's community engagement coordinator, Jenette Sturges. "Covers in a lot of American cities include city logos or symbols, but other countries get very playful with their manhole covers, turning a utilitarian bit of infrastructure into something engaging and fun. We are excited to see what local artists propose."

The city will order about 20 new manhole covers for the project, which will include streets around the Reserve at Hudson Crossing and a pedestrian-friendly thoroughfare on the former Village Hall bloc. Officials said since the new covers would need to be purchased for new development projects anyway, the art project will come at little additional costs to the village.

To submit designs for consideration, go here. Artists who are interested should submit up to three sketches or digital renderings by Thursday, January 17, 2019 at 3 p.m. Email questions to jsturges@oswegoil.org.

A selection committee comprised of members of the Cultural Arts Commission, village staff, residents and business owners will decide on three finalists, who will be awarded $200 each. Following consultation with the manhole cover manufacturer, officials said, a final design will be selected, with that artists receiving $1,000.

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