A coalition of state and local agencies and non-profit organizations are excited to announce the third year of Drain Smart; a public art program aimed at reducing the degradation of local water resources.

“Public response to the first two years of Drain Smart murals has been incredibly positive, and people are responding to the conservation message. We are very excited to continue to expand this project into new areas of the city this year,” said Gary Moody, Public Affairs Director for Audubon Arkansas.

Like most cities, Little Rock’s storm drains flow directly into our streams. When it rains, water picks up everything in its path and carries it through storm drains into our streams and creeks. Drain Smart is an engaging public-education / environmental program that uses art to communicate the importance of reducing the litter that flows into our storm drains.

Coordinators with the program are calling for local artists to submit their ideas for murals to be painted on 18 storm drains in Little Rock. This exciting project gives artists the opportunity to express themselves via semi-permanent public art in a series of small-scale outdoor storm drain murals. This art lasts for 5 - 7 years and serves to raise public awareness of the need for watershed and stream protection.

This year’s designated murals will be grouped in the following high traffic city corridors: The Promenade at Chenal, 12^th Street, Bass Pro Shops / The Outlets of Little Rock, and Kavanaugh Boulevard. Selected artists will receive a $150 stipend and all necessary supplies will be provided.

Artists have until March 15 to submit their applications along with a sketch of their idea. Artists will be notified by April 1 and all art will be completed by June 5. Artists will be eligible for an additional final prize to be given to the winners chosen by public voting.                                                                          

For more information on this project, the timeline, rules and artist application visit www.drain-smart.org
For media inquiries contact Gary Moody at 501.224.2229.