Coral Springs launches exciting new public art initiative with local high school artists turning retired fire hydrants into unique art pieces
Coral Springs, Florida – A new and exciting public art initiative is taking shape in Coral Springs, where retired fire hydrants will be transformed into colorful sculptures by local high school artists. The project, part of the city’s public art program, was launched this week, offering young artists the opportunity to showcase their creativity while enhancing the city’s aesthetic.
The city’s plan involves taking five retired fire hydrants, which are no longer in use, and turning them into works of art. These repurposed hydrants will be painted by high school students, with the completed sculptures to be displayed at various public locations around Coral Springs, including parks and city properties. The hydrants will be placed well away from active fire hydrants to ensure there is no confusion about their intended function.
“We’re excited to engage the community’s young artists in this creative endeavor,” said a representative from Coral Springs’ public art program. “This project not only highlights the talent of our high school students but also allows us to repurpose old fire hydrants in a fun and artistic way that benefits the entire city.”
The city is seeking proposals from local high schools and art clubs, with the goal of selecting five artists to participate in the project. Students will have the chance to submit their designs, and the chosen artists will be responsible for painting the hydrants once they are delivered to their schools.
According to the plan, Coral Springs will handle the preparation of the hydrants, which will include cleaning and sandblasting to ensure they are ready for painting. Additionally, the city will supply the paint and provide logistical support throughout the project. Once the artists complete their work, Coral Springs will retrieve the painted hydrants and install them at designated locations. Each hydrant will feature a label with the artist’s name, making sure they receive recognition for their contribution to the city’s public art collection.
This unique project is expected to cost around $3,000, with half of that budget allocated to sandblasting the hydrants and the other half to supplies such as paint. The city aims to have the artists selected by April 23, with proposals due by April 14. After receiving the selected hydrants, artists will have the majority of May to complete their designs. The city plans to install the completed art pieces in June.
This creative project is also set to be a temporary installation. After a year, the fire hydrants will be repainted, and the public art committee will decide whether to continue the initiative or make adjustments for future installations. The committee hopes the project will inspire more artistic expression in the community and provide a fun, colorful addition to public spaces.
With such an innovative approach, Coral Springs is turning everyday objects into eye-catching pieces of art, all while providing young artists with the opportunity to leave their mark on the city. It’s a win-win for both the local art community and the residents who will be able to enjoy the artwork in public spaces for years to come.
For those interested in submitting proposals, the deadline for entries is April 14.
