Canton’s “Art Box” Project Blends Wide-Format Print With Augmented Reality

DOWNTOWN CANTON IS getting a vibrant makeover thanks to the Canton City Planning Commission’s Art Box Project — a bold initiative transforming 12 graffiti-covered traffic control boxes along the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Grand Parade route into eye-catching public art.

Using 3M IJ180mC-10SLS vinyl and an HP Latex 700 wide-format printer, the team at Canton, Ohio-based ALD Decal & Graphics revamped these once-overlooked utility boxes and turned them into stunning historical showcases, each depicting a unique aspect of Canton’s rich history. From the birth of the NFL to William McKinley’s presidency, each box tells a story through intricate designs created by Dirk Rozich of D’sign Elixir.

But, as with all wide-format installations, the project wasn’t without challenges. Each box required meticulous measurement and scaling to ensure designs accommodated vents, access panels, and locks. The 20+ year-old metal boxes also needed extensive cleaning to remove graffiti and stickers before installation. Plus, the scorching July heat turned the metal boxes into virtual ovens. This caused the vinyl to stretch and distort — making early morning installations became essential.

What sets this project apart? Augmented reality. Local artist Tracy Brewer integrated the Artivive app, allowing visitors to interact with the artwork. Now, as you stand before the William McKinley box, you can hear him deliver a “Front Porch Campaign” speech while his lips move and the flag waves behind him.

With approximately 475 square feet of printed vinyl, the Art Box Project is more than just a beautification effort — it’s a fusion of art, technology, and storytelling that celebrates Canton’s legacy while enhancing its streetscape. This award-winning project is proof that public art can be innovative, engaging, and deeply rooted in history.

PHOTO GALLERY (26 IMAGES)