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Downtown Mount Vernon is set to receive a vibrant artistic upgrade as the Knox County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), in partnership with Experience Mount Vernon, launches a unique utility box art project. The initiative aims to infuse public art into the cityscape while highlighting the rich and historic narratives that make Mount Vernon truly special.
The first utility box, dedicated to our local parks and green spaces, is located at the corner of North Main and Chestnut Street, is scheduled to be wrapped on Wednesday, July 2nd, marking the beginning of an ambitious undertaking. This initial installation is just the first of over ten (10) utility boxes throughout downtown that will be transformed into captivating works of art over the course of the coming year.
Each wrapped utility box will serve as a visual storyteller, depicting significant people, places, and moments from Mount Vernon’s past and present. The designs are meticulously crafted to engage residents and visitors, encouraging them to pause, explore, and learn about the city’s unique heritage.
“We are incredibly excited to bring this vision to life in downtown Mount Vernon,” said Olivia Toth, Marketing Manager of the Knox County CVB. “This project is more than just adding art; it’s about celebrating our collective history and making it accessible and engaging for everyone. This project stems directly from our involvement with the America 250-Ohio celebrations happening across Ohio in 2026, as we sought a unique way to celebrate and blend our untold stories with public art.” Tapped to take on this creative project is local artist, Emily Morrison (@emilymorrisonarts). “We’re excited to have Emily on this project because she has volunteered her artistic talents and photography for many events and organizations throughout our community,” said Toth. “Emily understands how important visual storytelling is and I can’t wait for everyone to see her unique style and vibrant work.”
The initiative is a testament to strong community collaboration. “Experience Mount Vernon is thrilled to partner with the CVB on a project that beautifies our downtown in such a creative way,” added Lacey Filkins, Director of Experience Mount Vernon. “These art boxes will not only enhance our streetscape but also provide new points of interest for both locals and visitors, encouraging them explore all that downtown has to offer.”
Funding for the project comes from the Knox County CVB, Experience Mount Vernon and with additional project support made possible through a grant from the Ariel Foundation. Upon completion, the entire utility box art project will be featured as a key component of the Knox County CVB’s interactive Mount Vernon Art & History Trail. A new initiative being designed to guide visitors through the city’s artistic and historical landmarks, Toth says this project is just the beginning. “Our plan is that by 2026, there will be a brand-new way to experience so many of our untold stories, historic gems and public art in downtown.”
About the Knox County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB)
The Knox County Convention & Visitors Bureau markets the county as a top destination, driving visitor spending and supporting the unique experiences and characteristics that define us. The Knox County CVB is located at the historic CA&C Visitor Center, at 501 South Main Street, Mount Vernon, Ohio 43050. For more information, visit www.visitknoxohio.org or follow along on social media @visitknoxohio.
