Utility Box Mural — Cambridge

Bridge Housing Charitable Trust is commissioning an artist to transform a ~11m² utility box into a vibrant, welcoming artwork at Peake Mews, one of its affordable housing developments in Cambridge, Waikato. The box sits within the development — surrounded by homes, shared spaces, and the daily life of the community — and the artwork should feel like it belongs there.

The brief is deliberately open. We're looking for original concepts that are imaginative, colourful and engaging. Ideas might draw on local flora and fauna, nature, play, imagination, storytelling, or abstract designs that bring energy and life to the space. What matters most is that the work celebrates community, belonging and optimism — something that residents, especially children, will enjoy for years to come.

The artwork should be bright, positive and family-friendly; appeal to children while being enjoyable for all ages; create a sense of pride and place for residents; be suitable for a public, residential environment; and be durable for outdoor conditions.

The $3,000 NZD budget is all-inclusive, covering your artist fee, materials, surface preparation, and installation. The surface is powder-coated steel (1950 × 2030 × 860mm, four faces plus top). A downloadable template with exact dimensions is included with the brief.

Applications are free and submitted through Patronage — you'll need a Patronage account to apply. Your application should include a concept sketch or visual mock-up, a short description of the inspiration behind your design, and examples of previous work. Please review the full artist brief, box template, and terms before applying — all three are available to download below.

This open call is managed by Patronage on behalf of Bridge Housing Charitable Trust. Applications close 28 August 2026.