September 26, 2026 | 5:30-7 p.m.
The City of Fort Collins Art in Public Places Program is celebrating the 20th Anniversary of the Transformer Cabinet Mural Project with a special exhibition honoring the artists, partnerships, and public artwork that have turned transformer cabinets into vibrant works of art throughout the city.
On view at The Lincoln Center from September 11 through November 20, 2026, Beyond the Box highlights two decades of creativity through photographs, historical information, and a full sized electrical box will be displayed in the gallery. Cabinet mural artists were also invited to each paint a 12-by-12-inch canvas in their own style, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience these artists’ talents in a gallery setting.
Come to The Lincoln Center to meet participating artists for a free reception on Saturday, September 26, from 5–7 p.m. Visitors are invited to meet participating artists, learn about the history of the project, and hear firsthand how public art has helped shape Fort Collins’ neighborhoods and public spaces.
The Transformer Cabinet Mural Project began as a collaboration between Fort Collins Utilities and the City’s Art in Public Places Program. Faced with the ongoing cost of repainting utility transformer cabinets damaged by graffiti, Utilities partnered with Art in Public Places to commission local artists to transform the cabinets into colorful public artworks. The initiative has proven to be an effective strategy for discouraging graffiti while enhancing the visual character of neighborhoods across Fort Collins.
Over the past 20 years, the project has become a recognizable part of the city’s public art collection, showcasing the creativity of local artists while demonstrating how art can solve community challenges, foster civic pride, and make everyday spaces more welcoming.
The 20th Anniversary Exhibition celebrates the hundreds of artists, staff, and community partners who have contributed to the program’s success and invites residents to reflect on two decades of public art that continues to brighten streets throughout Fort Collins.