At first, Melanie Therrien said she couldn’t stand the graffiti on a traffic control box – a cabinet that controls the traffic lights and walk signs – in Lewiston. But then inspiration hit, prompting the creation of the Traffic Control Box Public Art Project.

“I realized I could turn what was once graffiti into a work of art,” said Therrien. “I love spreading art in my community and I thought this would be a fun and unique way to do this.”

Earlier this year, Therrien assembled a crew of about 30 local artists and tasked them with painting as many traffic control boxes as possible.  

The team has transformed 42 boxes into works of art.

“It was truly an amazing experience, one of the highlights of my career,” said Therrien. “It even got the attention of the Public Art Committee, who asked us to do all 48 boxes across the city.”

Grayling Cunningham is a longtime Lewiston resident who’s been creating art for most of his life. Working at the box at the intersection of Central Avenue and Sabattus Street, he talked about the importance of this project to the city.

“This project is a great way to help revitalize what Lewiston is,” said Cunningham. “So much has happened in our city in the last year that we’re looking to put smiles on people’s faces, whether going to work or walking down the street.” 

Cunningham has worked with Therrien to receive grants for painting creative crosswalks and fire hydrants across Lewiston.

Therrien said the job isn’t over and has plans to have the last six boxes painted next spring.

For now, she’s pleased with the work that she’s seen from the community.

“It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come,” said Therrien. “We still have a little bit more work to next spring, but I’m just so proud with how everyone’s artwork came out. This was truly a community effort, and I’m so thankful for those who’ve helped.”