The village of Fox Lake has announced that its inaugural public art installation exhibit, Inspire Hydrants, was a great success, raising $3,000.

Twelve retired fire hydrants decorated by local artists dotted the streets of downtown Fox Lake from July through November, culminating with a public auction Nov. 1. Monies raised from this auction will support Promote Fox Lake’s village beautification projects, Fox Lake Volunteer Fire Department and the artists.

Artists were encouraged to enhance the fire hydrants with creative features beyond paint and designs and they delivered. Bidders had a wide range of hydrants to choose from, with themes ranging from Goldfish to Captain America, the Blackhawks and “It’s Always 5 O’Clock in Fox Lake.”

“We’re so pleased this first annual outdoor public art exhibit in downtown Fox Lake was a success,” said Donovan Day, Community Development director for Fox Lake. “Through art, we grew as a community and we thank everyone from the bottom of our heart.”