'Paint the Town' returns with 3 new works of public art

Second annual initiative showcases local artists and transforms traffic signal boxes into colorful celebrations of Island life

Town of Grand Island Economic Development Advisory Board press release & images

The Town of Grand Island's “Paint the Town” public art project returns for its second year, featuring the work of three local artists whose designs celebrate the Island's natural beauty, recognizable landmarks, and strong sense of community.

This year's selected artists are Sonia Merkel, Nissa Elahi and Stephanie Violino, each of whom will receive a $200 honorarium for their winning design. Their completed artwork now adorns traffic signal boxes at three prominent locations, bringing colorful displays of public art to everyday spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Led by the Town's Economic Development Advisory Board, the project invites local artists to bring creativity to everyday public spaces. This year's theme, “Our Community, Our Canvas,” encouraged artists to reflect on what makes Grand Island special.

Pictured, from left: artists Sonia Merkel, Nissa Elahi and Stephanie Violino. (Submitted)

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Merkel, a graphic designer and children's book illustrator, drew inspiration from Grand Island's natural environment and the community she has come to call home. Her design features wildflowers, trees, falling leaves, and the outline of Grand Island, with the Niagara River flowing across all three panels. The word “HOME” anchors the composition, reflecting her connection to the Island and its residents.

“This piece is for all of the wonderful people I've met on the island who have made our family part of this community,” Merkel wrote in her application. Her artwork is displayed on the traffic box along Grand Island Boulevard at the entrance to Tops Friendly Markets.

Elahi chose one of Grand Island's most recognizable landmarks – the Grand Island Bridge – as the centerpiece of her colorful design. Featuring the bridge against a vibrant sunset, with the Niagara River flowing beneath it, her artwork celebrates the Island's identity and its connection to the surrounding region. Elahi described the bridge as a symbol of the connection between Grand Islanders and visitors alike. Her artwork is displayed at the intersection of Grand Island Boulevard and Bedell Road.

Violino, a lifelong artist and award-winning photographer, found inspiration in one of Grand Island's most cherished traditions: its annual Fourth of July parade. Drawing on her experiences as a mother of two young children, Violino created a design celebrating the Island through their eyes.

“There is something magical about that morning when all of Grand Island comes together,” Violino wrote of the parade. “It's unlike anywhere else that I've lived.”

Her artwork is displayed at the intersection of Love Road and South Parkway.

Now in its second year, “Paint the Town” is an initiative of the town's Economic Development Advisory Board, whose mission includes fostering economic vitality while preserving Grand Island's unique character. By transforming ordinary infrastructure into public art, the project showcases local talent, beautifies highly visible public spaces, and strengthens the sense of community pride that makes Grand Island a special place to live and visit.

Additional information about the project is available on the town's website at https://www.grandislandny.gov/1496/Paint-the-Town.