Outside the Box Program

Applications for the 2024 Outside the Box program are now open.
Please apply before April 11, 2024.
Apply Now
The Outside the Box program provides an opportunity for local artists to create works of art on traffic signal boxes across Toronto. Since 2013, over 350 boxes have been hand-painted by local artists, or wrapped featuring designs by local graphic artists, and transformed into extraordinary works of art. Artists and graphic designers applying to this program are encouraged to consider the context of the local area and the city as a whole. Art calls for hand-painted boxes, and graphic designs for wrapped boxes, are issued separately.
  • Applicants must reside in the City of Toronto.
  • Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
  • City of Toronto employees are not eligible to apply.

Finished works will be on functioning City of Toronto equipment that will need repair or replacing at some point in time. The City therefore cannot guarantee the duration of use of each traffic signal box. Artists and graphic designers should also be aware that traffic signal boxes are often targets for vandalism. Although the City will protect the artwork with a vandal-resistant clear coat or wrap, it cannot guarantee that vandalized traffic signal boxes will be repaired and the artwork restored to its original state. Artists must accept the risk that their artwork may be damaged, altered, or removed at any time after completion.

This program provides opportunities for local and emerging artists to create works of art using paint or graphic design on vinyl panels.

Successful designs will have these principles in mind:

  • StART’s core values (Indigeneity, Diversity, Mobility and Accessibility, Ecology and the Environment)
  • Animate streetscape to make walking, cycling, driving appealing and enjoyable
  • Reflect the character of the city of Toronto
  • Reflect diversity of Toronto
  • Resonate with public
  • Deter vandalism
  • Design proposals must include all visible sides of the cabinet

Box Dimensions: City of Toronto Traffic Signal Box Dimensions

Download Outside the Box posters featuring hand-painted traffic signal boxes throughout the city: