Since 2014, TVWA has partnered with the Fairbanks Stormwater Advisory Committee and invited local artists to submit design proposals for storm drain art in downtown Fairbanks. The purpose of this project is to raise public awareness that all of the storm drains on our roadways flow directly into the Chena River and its tributaries. The Storm Drain Art Contest is an opportunity for artists to create public works of art in downtown Fairbanks that help convey this message. The project has garnered local, state and national attention.
Previous locations where art was displayed include: Cushman Street (2014), Noble Street (2015), Cowles Street (2016), Gilliam Way (2017), Barnette Street (2018), 5th Avenue (2019), Lacey Street (2020), Barnette Street (2021), 3rd Avenue (2022), 2nd Avenue (2023). View past years’ work below and here.
This year’s Storm Drain Art Event will be June 7th.
Important information:
Submissions are requested by is 11:59 pm on May 24, 2025 (Instructions below).
Artists will paint their designs on Saturday, June 7th from 9am to 2pm (weather permitting).
The artists selected will receive $150 on the day of the event as a stipend for art supplies and creative appreciation.
Outdoor acrylic paint, brushes and a container for washing brushes are to be supplied by artists.
Buckets for disposal of paint water, drinks, and snacks will be provided by TVWA.
Please email your proposed artwork with an artwork title, a short description, and your contact information to us at tvwatershed@gmail.com
Artwork will be reviewed by TVWA and the Fairbanks Stormwater Advisory Committee and artists will be notified by May 31, 2025.
Check out the painted drains on Cowles Street!
