Public Voting Opens for Kent County Public Art Project

Five finalist artists announced for new Gateway public art installation in Chestertown

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

The Morgnec Road Gateway Committee has announced five finalist artists for a new Gateway public art installation associated with the Morgnec Road Solar project, officially opening the public voting phase of this community-driven process. Formed to guide the design and selection of a permanent public art feature welcoming residents and visitors into Chestertown, the Gateway Committee is inviting area residents to review the finalist designs and cast a vote to help determine the future Gateway artwork for Kent County.

Why it matters

This public art project aims to create a welcoming gateway feature for the Chestertown community, representing a collaborative effort between local government, businesses, and community groups to enhance the town's cultural and visual identity.

The details

The five finalist artists were selected by the Gateway Committee, which includes representatives from the Kent County Department of Planning, Housing, and Zoning, the Chestertown Town Manager, Chestertown Public Arts Committee, Shore Rivers, the Kent Conservation and Preservation Alliance, a local Morgnec Road business, a community member at large, and Urban Grid, owner and operator of the Morgnec Road Solar facility. The winning artist will receive a $75,000 commission to install the artwork, with the five finalists each receiving a $1,000 stipend.

  • Public voting begins on Friday, March 6th at 5pm and closes on Thursday, March 12th at 11:59pm.
  • The winning artwork is targeted for installation by the end of September 2026, with a public unveiling event planned for October 2026.

The players

Morgnec Road Gateway Committee

A committee formed to guide the design and selection of a permanent public art feature welcoming residents and visitors into Chestertown.

Kent County Department of Planning, Housing, and Zoning

A government agency represented on the Morgnec Road Gateway Committee.

Chestertown Town Manager

A representative on the Morgnec Road Gateway Committee.

Chestertown Public Arts Committee

A community group represented on the Morgnec Road Gateway Committee.

Urban Grid

The owner and operator of the Morgnec Road Solar facility, which is funding the $75,000 commission for the winning public art installation.

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What’s next

The winning artist is set to receive a commission of $75,000, paid by Urban Grid's Morgnec Road Solar facility. Installation is targeted for the end of September 2026, and a public unveiling event is planned for October 2026.

The takeaway

This public art project represents a collaborative effort between local government, businesses, and community groups to enhance Chestertown's cultural and visual identity, inviting residents and visitors to engage with and help shape the town's future public artwork.