Submitted By: Jamie Antonetti
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Presentation By: Cultural Arts Supervisor: Emily Parkman
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Department: Growth Management
STAFF RECOMMENDATION (Motion Ready):
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Ocala Electric utility Box Mural Project
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BACKGROUND:
Jesse Warren Gillis for Magnolia Art Xchange applied for the OMAC grant for $2,000 on November 17, 2025. The goals are to beautify Downtown Ocala with high-quality public art, support local artists, and strengthen partnerships between the MAX, OEU and the City. 4 utility box locations were designated: 298 SE 4th Ave, 220 SE Osceola Ave, 11 SE Fort King St, and SE 3rd Ave.
OMAC approved on December 3, 2025. Recruitment began on January 1, 2026, by releasing an open call for design proposals. Affiliate artists applied, designs were presented to the city for approval. There were design concerns, so City requested re-design. MAX reached out to artists for redesign, artists were unable to provide new concepts. Some artists left residency, MAX then came out with a new open call. These new artist designs were then presented to Ocala Electric on September 1 for approval.
MAX is committed to fulfilling the requirements of this project and grant agreement, they will be providing a new timeline and project parameters at the next OMAC meeting.
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
Artists’ designs were selected and approved by Ocala Electric Utility staff.