LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (Monday, February 3, 2020)—A coalition of state and local agencies and non-profit organizations are excited to announce the sixth year of Drain Smart; a public art program aimed at raising awareness, education and protection of local water resources. The project spans Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Bryant.
"Drain Smart is a creative, interactive approach to Stormwater Education and Pollution Prevention. This program has increased public awareness on the topic of how stormwater flows from drains and inlets directly into natural waterways, impacting habitat and wildlife. This knowledge helps people gauge their activities and take steps to protect the environment," said Ben Wilson, Stormwater Manager for the City of Bryant.
In most cities across Arkansas storm drains flow directly into the nearest waterway. When it rains, water picks up everything in its path and carries it through storm drains into our creeks and rivers. Drain Smart is an engaging public art / environmental education program that uses art to communicate the importance of reducing street litter so it doesn’t get washed down a storm drain and pollute water and wildlife habitat.
The Drain Smart Committee is calling for artists to submit their ideas for murals to be painted on 12 storm drains in Little Rock, North Little Rock, and Bryant. Selected artists will receive a $150 stipend, and basic paint supplies.
This exciting project gives artists the opportunity to express themselves via semi-permanent public art in the form of a small-scale outdoor storm drain murals. This art will then serve to educate the public on watershed and stream protection.
Artists have until March 13 to submit their applications along with a sketch of their idea online at www.drain-smart.org. Artists will be notified by March 27 and all art will be completed by June 1. Additional final prizes will be given to the winners chosen by public voting.
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For more information on this project, the timeline, rules and artist application visit www.drain-smart.org
For media inquiries contact Dan Scheiman at 501.244.2229.
