Carrollton blessing box promotes creativity with free art supplies

A new kind of blessing box is drawing attention outside the Carroll County Arts Center — one filled not with food or clothing, but with art and art supplies.

The box, installed earlier this summer, was built by co-chair Wally Anderson and hand-painted by fellow co-chair Cheri Bell. Inspired by the psychedelic pop art of Peter Max, the colorful design is meant to catch the eye of passersby.

“There are many blessing boxes in the area, and I thought, gosh, why not do something with art and art supplies?” Bell said. “It’s really about sharing the art, sharing the love.”

The concept is simple: a give-one, take-one space where residents can exchange brushes, paints, crayons, books and other creative materials. Finished artwork can also be left for others to enjoy. Bell said children and adults alike have already begun contributing and taking pieces.

“It’s been very well received,” she said. “There are people that come in here frequently, and they pull in, look inside, and put something in. It’s very much being used.”

The project is part of the board’s ongoing effort to draw more people to the center. Bell said extra donated supplies often end up in the box, giving community members access to free creative materials while also inviting them to stop by the property.

Board members include Bell and Anderson as co-chairs, Treasurer Kathy Morehouse, Secretary Donna Walters and artist Jen Collins. Office manager Rochelle Thompson also helps support the center’s work.

The blessing box joins other community art efforts at the site, such as the “Picket Pals” project, which features hand-painted fence pickets designed by local artists, students and community groups. A rock snake is also being formed beside the blessing box.

“It really sticks out,” Bell said. “And the blessing box adds to it.”