Three hydro boxes part of beautification project

Three hydro boxes in the Old Town have been decorated in the spirit of community beautification, following a contest that asked for artists’ submissions.

The project is a partnership between the Town’s Communities in Bloom Committee, Niagara-on-the-Lake Hydro and the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre, which is presenting an exhibition of artwork submissions to be displayed from Dec. 12 to Jan. 7.

There will be an opening reception and awards celebration party for the community-building event on Thursday, Dec. 12, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Pumphouse, with wine and nibbles. The public is welcome.

Lord Mayor Betty Disero made a point of driving around to check out the boxes on the weekend.

“I’ve seen them and I love them. They give us an opportunity to showcase our visual artists,” says Disero.

“We just have to see if they weather well. It would not look good if they fall apart over the winter.”

Winning artists are Elaine Bryck, Lindsey Kemp and Jennifer Penner.

Prize money of $500 will be awarded for each of the three winning submissions on the evening of the reception.

The competition was open to artists who live, work or operate in the Niagara Region.

The idea of Hydro Box beautification, which has been successful in many other communities, came from Tim Curtis, president of NOTL Hydro, says a press release from the Town, in an effort to promote the local partnerships.