The Utility Box Art Project is taking ordinary objects of urban infrastructure and transforming them into canvases for local artwork. These vibrant pieces incorporate art into the downtown landscape, create visual interest, and support local artists as the Fond du Lac arts scene continues to grow. In the first two years of the program 18 installations have been completed. After receiving positive response and interest from the community, the program will be expanded beyond the downtown district and into neighborhoods within the City of Fond du Lac.
Worldly View
Barbara Ball of Fond du Lac
CORNER OF 9TH AND MAIN
“I paint because it’s fun and messy! I love painting acrylic pours because everyone sees something different in them. It’s almost a spiritual feeling that comes into my soul when I create a painting. I get excited about all the possibilities waiting for me on the blank canvas. It’s like starting fresh everyday! It makes me happy to see others happy and enjoying my work.”
My Turn Next
Anthony Pazos of West Allis
CORNER OF MAIN AND REESE STREETS
“I enjoy painting kit-themed works of families out having time away from the tv and computer games.”
Lakeside Park Flower Beds
Artist: Barb Zahn of Fond du Lac
LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF MARR AND 2ND STREETS
“My inspiration for this piece of artwork was Lakeside Park. The beautiful flower beds that are planted near the lighthouse and throughout the park inspire me. In the upper area I have placed blue waves which remind view of Lake Winnebago.”
Fondy’s Music Scene
Artist: Raymond Fehrenbach of Oshkosh
LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF MARR AND 1ST STREETS
“[My artwork was inspired by] Fondy’s music scene & night life & the people that support the arts!”
Historic, Iconic Fond du Lac
Artist: Stephanie McGuire of Fond du Lac
LOCATED THE CORNER OF MARR AND DIVISION STREETS
A version of this piece is available for purchase at Gallery & Frame Shop.
Sailboats
Artist: Raymond Fehrenbach of Oshkosh
LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF MACY STREET AND 1ST STREET
“[My inspiration was] celebrating Fondy’s relationship with water/boating & sports.”
Transfiguration
Artist: James Floyd of Fond du Lac
LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF MAIN AND DIVISION STREET
“Transfiguration is about mankind’s search for enlightenment, refining our minds and bodies, and moving forward with positive actions.”
Cat Box
Artist: Samantha Nelson of Fond du Lac
LOCATED ON DIVISION AT CHASE BANK
“Everyone loves cats and they’re always popular in illustrative imagery because they are playful and cute… [this box is] a 3D cat experience!”
My Watercolor Palette
Artist: Mary Millin of Fond du Lac
LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF MACY AND DIVISION STREETS
“My Inspiration is the world around me in Fond du Lac.”
Lakeside Delight
Artist: Christine Lehto of Rosendale
LOCATED IN HAMILTON PARK
“I love visiting Lakeside Park and going to the lighthouse on a sunny day. It is also fun to sit in the park by the lake and watch the pelicans. I wanted to include subjects that I enjoy the most at Lakeside Park.”
The Power of Water, Wind and Light
Artist: Alice Tzakais of Fond du Lac
LOCATED AT THE INTERSECTION OF FOREST AND MAIN STREETS
“This painting illustrates the power of water, wind and light. It expresses the beauty of Lake Winnebago without realistically portraying every element. The focus on figurative objects and joyful adventures on the water is expressed with playful color combinations and patterns.”
Milk Bath (East Side) and Nosy Neighbor (West Side)
Artist: Sarah Newton of Fond du Lac
LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF MAIN AND 1ST STREETS
“I moved to Wisconsin from the East Coast and have discovered a whole new world of gorgeous, sprawling farms and awesomely quirky animals. I love to paint farm animals (mostly cows). I love their personalities and their variations in colors. Art can evoke so many emotions, but my favorite to try and capture is joy and humor. Humor in art is accessible to a wide range of people and age groups. It levels playing fields and hopefully brings in new people to experience art.”
Coco Cow-nel (East Side) and Dog Days of Summer (West Side)
Artist: Sarah Newton of Fond du Lac
LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF MAIN AND 2ND STREETS
“The Corgi submission is inspired by our dog-friendly Farmers Market! I could see bunches of pups enjoying ice cream in the sun downtown.”
Winnebago: Above and Below
Artist: Pat Reiher of Fond du Lac
LOCATED ON MAIN BETWEEN 2ND AND 3RD STREETS
Living on Lake Winnebago, I have had the joy of witnessing and participating in many of the activities it provides! I love the lake, water, and all it gives to us above and below its surfaces!”
Lakeside Park
Artist: Casey French of Fond du Lac
LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF MAIN AND WESTERN
Fond du Lac‘s “iconic lighthouse at night.”
Giddy Up
Artist: Joellyn Dahlin
LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF MACY AND 2ND STREETS
“This original photograph pays homage to the landmark carousel at Lakeside Park.”“This original photograph pays homage to the landmark carousel at Lakeside Park.”
Strike up the Band!
Artist: Joellyn Dahlin
LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF MACY AND 4TH STREETS
“Everyone loves a parade! This original photograph showcases the precision and hard work of the Fond du Lac High School Marching Cardinals.”
Multicolored Medallions
Artist: Christine Lehto
LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF FOREST AND MARR STREETS
“I am enthusiastic about color, shape & pattern. This piece signifies many ideas coming together as one unifying design. It was inspired by a composition that I painted on the cover of my art journal.”
Windsurfing and Kiting on Lake Winnebago
Artist: Alice Tzakais
LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF MAIN AND JOHNSON STREETS
“This painting portrays the beauty and energy of windsurfing and kiting on Lake Winnebago. Be blown away with the playful color combinations and patterns that embrace this delightful water sport!