Colorful, Clever Art Helps Keep Rivers Clean

The artists of CLEAN DRAINS FORT WAYNE: Be River SmART take to the streets in the year two collaboration between Friends of the Rivers and City Utilities.

The collaboration puts a spotlight on the role of the humble storm drain in protecting our waterways through the creative masterstroke of storm drain murals designed by local artists. Each mural is unique, but everyone communicates the singular message … only rain in the drain.

Through these message-oriented storm-drain art murals, Clean Drains Fort Wayne raises awareness that any trash, grass clippings, dog poop and chemicals that find their way into the city’s storm drains go directly (and untreated) in Fort Wayne’s three rivers.

Clean Drains Fort Wayne has announced the selection of the 37 artists who will be creating the storm drain murals throughout the community this summer and fall.

“This year, we had a much more competitive artist application process, and the collection of selected artists represents both emerging and professional artists,” said Alexandra Hall, artist coordinator for Clean Drain Fort Wayne.

“This educational initiative has proven to not only be a powerful mechanism for education and public engagement, but also a wonderful platform for creatives in our community.”

Fort Wayne’s vibrant riverfront and waterways are essential to the region’s quality of life and economic vitality. Collective vigilance and action are required to protect these enduring natural assets from pollutants.