Shock Art at the OTM

Join us, Public Voting for your favorite Shock Art!

An exhibit of artists’ model entries for the popular program produced by Longmont Art in Public Places; Shock Art 2022, will be available for public viewing & voting, in the atrium of the Old Town Marketplace beginning July 7th through July 26th, Monday through Saturdays, 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.  Longmont Art in Public Places continues this widely popular program & exhibit for the public’s pleasure and input; voting on which artist entries will receive the $2,000 stipend and suggestions as to location of future shock art entries.

Shock Art Exhibit

2020 Shock Art Designs

Grid of seven scale models with colorful designs

About Shock Art

In partnership with Longmont Power & Communications, Longmont Art in Public Places (AIPP) commissions 5-7 artist/artist teams to visually transform selected dull electric boxes into dynamic works of art. Selected Artists or artist teams are provided a $2,000 stipend. Anticipated painting time will be late summer/early fall.

Artists/teams are responsible for:

  1. executing their design as presented in the model and
  2. all painting materials to paint the box including graffiti sealant (please note spray paint is not permitted)

AIPP will be responsible for assigning locations and priming the boxes in advance of artist painting as well as organizing the advance  training with LPC.

Art in Public Places committee members will select electric boxes in various locations around the City of Longmont and selected artists and artist teams will be commissioned to complete the painting. City contract and program participation guidelines will apply to all selected artists – including confirmation of qualification and approval of final project.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shock Art?

Shock Art is a collaboration between Art in Public Places and Longmont Power & Communications that brings color and creativity to the (otherwise dull green) boxes. Selected artists are required to complete a city agreement, attend an in-person orientation and are awarded $2,000 for completed Shock Art boxes.

What if I’m an artist and want to paint?

The 2021 program submissions will open May 1, 2021. Artists will be asked to complete a submission form and deliver a 11”L x 10”W x 7.25”H painted scale model to the drop off location – the Longmont Museum. If you’re interested you can start on your model today!

How do I get a box painted in my neighborhood?

The AIPP Commission accepts submission for switchgear boxes all year long. At this time, we are only painting the square ones that are approximately 65″ square that you currently see around town.

How do I get to paint a switchgear box?

Each year, AIPP puts out a call to artists, requesting artists’ designs on a small scaled model. The Longmont community cast their votes for their favorite. The Art in Public Places Commission has final say on the selected winners.

Artist eligibility

The project is open to all artists nationwide (and/or artist teams), regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, military status, sexual orientation, marital status, or physical or mental challenges. All participating artists must attend an in-person orientation prior to painting and are required to complete an agreement with the City of Longmont.

How do I get a box painted in my neighborhood?

The AIPP Commission accepts submission for switchgear boxes all year long. At this time, we are only painting the square ones that are approximately 65″ square that you currently see around town. Email us your request

 5:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Come… share your passion!