Beginning in 2022, the Experience Mount Vernon Public Art Ad Hoc Committee issued a call for original designs to create vibrant public art pieces from otherwise mundane utility and signal boxes throughout the Downtown Mount Vernon area.

The first three boxes were wrapped in 2024 and received much public praise. Beginning in 2025, the Knox County Convention & Visitors Bureau and Experience Mount Vernon began a collaboration to wrap an additional 13 signal boxes around Downtown that would highlight Mount Vernon and Knox County’s rich history, art, nature, and culture. Local artist and photographer, Emily Morrison, Emily Morrison Arts, is creating the original artwork for the additional boxes in an array of vibrant art styles.

Funding for the Utility Box Public Art Project comes from the Knox County Convention & Visitors Bureau and Experience Mount Vernon, with additional project support made possible through a grant from the Ariel Foundation. Upon completion, the Utility Box Public Art Project will be featured as a key component for the future Mount Vernon Art & History Tour. A new collaborative, supported by the Knox County CVB, will guide art lovers, history buffs, and visitors through the City's artistic and historical landmarks. The Mount Vernon Art & History Tour is projected to launch in 2027.