In 2016, local artist Aaron Lee Harris designed these decorations for utility boxes in Laguna

Work from local artist shines utility Boxes at Richfield Intersection

The inspiration behind Richfield’s latest public art piece

A new form of public art has been popping up all over the country, cities and towns have taken community beautification efforts to the streets. These colorful art displays are on utility boxes and various initiatives have turned them into opportunities for beautifying public spaces and showcasing local artists.

The goal of these projects is to celebrate local artists and have them contribute to the public art community. Local artists getting involved in their community benefits them and local businesses by providing exposure and increasing foot traffic. Efforts like this are funded by donations and sponsorships all with hopes of livening town spaces.

Richfield, MN artist, Kimberley Tornoe submitted her artwork and was chosen to be used as a wrap for two of the city’s utility boxes. “Two different paintings were chosen to wrap the utility boxes for this project. The sun, flowers, and street scene on the big box is called ‘In the City,’ and the smaller box wrapped with the bird is called ‘Nature,'” Tornoe said.
“My inspiration came from my love for city living with easy access to shops and markets mixed with the beauty of Woodlake Nature Center in the heart of Richfield.”

Tornoe also spoke about her artistic style in general. “My art is often a reflection of my feelings, so I’m always doing quick sketches to capture the moment. If I don’t have a sketchbook in front of me, art can end up on anything, like coffee sleeves, receipts, and paper bags so I have to be careful with my recycling.”

She wishes the goal for her future. “I want to add a little bit of joy to existence. Just for a moment, but a moment that can be repeated over and over. I want everyone to feel good when they see my work and go away a little happier than before they saw it. Professionally, I want to expand m business to reach more and more people, to continue improving my fiber skills and ultimately create a large-format work entirely in wool and to produce a children’s book with digital illustration.”

Tornoe’s two art pieces can be viewed anytime at the intersection of Lyndale and 65th Street in Richfield. City officials say they’re looking forward to wrapping more boxes with art in the coming years.

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