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A Call for Entries Invites Artists to Submit Designs for the Iconic KENT Sign

Main Street Kent is accepting design proposals for a refresh of the three-dimensional “KENT” sign located in Downtown Kent on N. Water St., near the Fairchild Ave. bridge.

Some of the previous KENT Sign designs.
These are just a few of the looks the sign has worn since it was first installed in 2021. 

 

The sign was first installed in Oct. 2021 with the idea that it could showcase the work of a variety of artists by receiving a “new look” every year or two.

Design proposals will be accepted through Feb. 28, 2026 through this link. All applicants will be notified by March 18, 2026 if their design was chosen or not, and the new artwork will be installed later in the spring.

Kent Sign Dimensions

 

The artist submitting the chosen design will be compensated $1,000 by Main Street Kent and the layout will be executed by their public art partner Each + Every. Printing will be handled by Advanced Display. Any questions about the process can be directed to Lesley Sickle, brand marketing, Main Street Kent lesley@mainstreetkent.org.

The current KENT Sign design, dressed for the Wizardly World of Kent weekend.
The KENT Sign's current look, dressed for The Wizarding World of Kent weekend in October 2025. 

 

Visitors to Kent are encouraged to visit the sign and share pictures on social media with the hashtag #kentohart and see the city’s many other public art installations on the Main Street Kent walking tours

POSTED: Wednesday, February 18, 2026 02:56 PM
Updated: Wednesday, February 18, 2026 05:44 PM
WRITTEN BY:
Phil B. Soencksen
PHOTO CREDIT:
Main Street Kent