Thunder Bay traffic boxes transformed into public art
Two Thunder Bay intersections are getting a colourful makeover through the work of local artist Mark Nisenholt.
Nisenholt’s artwork has been installed on traffic signal boxes at Arthur Street and Waterloo Street, as well as Court Street and Park Avenue.
The installations feature original designs by Nisenholt applied as graphic vinyl wraps to the boxes. Both are located in high-traffic pedestrian areas, bringing public art into spaces residents pass through every day.
Nisenholt was selected through a national call to artists coordinated by the City of Thunder Bay’s Public Art Program in 2024.
“Public art helps create vibrant, welcoming spaces and encourages people to engage with their surroundings in new ways,” said Laurie Abthorpe, the city’s supervisor of Cultural Development, Community Programming and Events.
“These installations have transformed everyday infrastructure into colourful community assets. We’ve received very positive feedback, and it’s rewarding to see residents stopping to appreciate and talk about the artwork.”
The project is part of the city’s broader efforts to beautify public spaces and strengthen Thunder Bay’s identity.
It also supports the attraction pillar of the city’s Smart Growth Action Plan, which includes initiatives focused on city-wide beautification and recreation and tourism attractions.
Funding was provided by the City of Thunder Bay and the Clean Green and Beautiful Committee’s Emerging Projects Fund.
The project is a collaboration between the city’s Public Art Committee, Recreation and Culture Division, and Infrastructure and Operations Department.