Dubuque, Iowa
Utilizing bus shelters to promote sustainability and the arts
The Project
Dubuque’s Asphalt Art Initiative, “Art En Route,” enhanced 14 bus shelter locations with climate-focused murals painted on the sidewalk under and around the shelters. The theme of the mural designs was determined through a public call for artists and community input. The designs aimed to be family-friendly, to celebrate the users of public transportation, and to raise awareness of the importance of environmental stewardship. The network of murals draws attention to the goals and priorities of the city’s Arts and Culture Master Plan to make arts and cultural resources and activities available in every neighborhood in the city and county, make art more visible in all aspects of daily life in Dubuque, and facilitate the presence and participation of arts and culture at non-cultural activities and venues.
“We were able to not only showcase our sustainability initiatives but also celebrate active transportation users, fostering an unlikely yet powerful coalition, creating a legacy of shared vision and lasting impact.”
- Gina Bell, Sustainability Director, City of Dubuque
Press
City of Dubuque and Green Dubuque Call for Art En Route Program Submissions Open (City of Dubuque, September 17, 2021)
Art En Route Project Seeks Artists for Bus Stop Murals (Telegraph Herald, February 15, 2022)
Dubuque Looking for Artists for Art En Route Project (KCRG, October 5, 2021)
For inspiration and tips for the creation of art on roadways and public places, download the Bloomberg Associates Asphalt Art Guide which features successful plaza and roadway art activations around the world, as well as key steps for developing such projects.
