Local artists are invited to help wrap Kawartha Lakes in creativity

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: A popular public art initiative is returning for 2026, offering local artists a chance to transform everyday infrastructure into vibrant community showcases, while also sparking conversation among residents.

The 'That’s a Wrap' Traffic Control Box Art Program is once again seeking submissions from visual artists and graphic designers, across Kawartha Lakes. Selected works will be reproduced and installed on traffic control boxes, throughout the municipality, turning functional streetscape elements into eye-catching pieces of public art. This is all aimed to brighten neighbourhoods, discourage graffiti, and celebrate local identity.

This year’s theme, 'The People of Kawartha Lakes,' has been chosen to mark the City’s 25th anniversary. Artists are encouraged to interpret the theme in a variety of ways, from highlighting important moments in local history to capturing everyday life in communities across the region.

Six designs will be selected for installation on traffic control boxes, including two in Bobcaygeon and four in Lindsay. An additional seven artworks will be featured in the 2027 Municipal Calendar, including the cover.

“This program not only brings colour and creativity to our streets, but it also provides a valuable platform for local artists to showcase their work,” said Donna Goodwin, Economic Development Officer – Culture. “We’re excited to see how artists interpret this year’s theme and reflect the diverse voices and experiences across Kawartha Lakes.”

Beyond the artists themselves, the program continues to resonate with residents who encounter the artwork in their daily routines. Lindsay resident, Karen Campbell said, she often goes out of her way to notice new designs, as they appear around town.

“It really brightens up spaces you wouldn’t normally think twice about,” she said. “Instead of just a plain metal box, you suddenly have something which tells a story about the community. It makes you stop and look.”

Little Britain resident, Mark Delaney agreed, adding, the artwork could help create a stronger sense of connection. “You see familiar places or people reflected in the designs, and it reminds you of what makes this area special,” he said. “It’s a simple idea, but it has a big impact.”

The program is open to Kawartha Lakes residents, aged 16 and older. Artists must submit digitally created artwork or high-quality scans of original pieces, with subject matter, including individuals or groups connected to the community. Submissions are also required to include a short biography and indicate where the work was created. Images must be high-resolution and in a portrait, or vertical format, as artwork may be cropped or resized to fit both traffic boxes and calendar layouts.

The submission deadline is Friday, May 8th, with artists expected to be notified in June, as installation begins.

Full program details and submission information are available on the That’s a Wrap webpage.