(Barrie, ON) – The City of Barrie and the Barrie Public Art Committee are seeking art from Ontario‑based artists for the Cabinets to Canvas program (formerly known as the Artist Designed Traffic Cabinet Wraps Project). This annual initiative aims to beautify the city by wrapping traffic cabinets with unique, community-inspired designs.
Wrapping traffic cabinets with art is part of the City’s Graffiti Abatement Program which uses a combination of removal, enforcement, educational initiatives, and beautification to reduce graffiti. Existing artist-designed traffic cabinets are currently displayed in key locations throughout Barrie, featuring original artwork that adds vibrancy to the city and fosters civic pride.
For the 2026 Cabinets to Canvas program, the City is seeking existing, original artwork that aligns with the theme ‘Reflections of Home’. Artists should submit family and community-friendly work that can be adapted for reproduction on a traffic or utility box. This call is open to artists living and working in Ontario, with priority given to artists from Simcoe County.
The deadline to submit a proposal is Friday, May 22, 2026. Prospective artists interested in the program are invited to attend a virtual information session on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, from 6 to 7 p.m., to learn more about the program and ask questions. Registration for the information session is required.
Submitted artwork will be reviewed and chosen by a selection committee, including members of the Barrie Public Art Committee and City staff. Selected artists will be compensated for their work, and artwork will be installed this fall.
For program details, eligibility requirements, application instructions, and to register for the virtual information session, visit barrie.ca/GraffitiAbatementArtwork.
