Ajax is holding the competition to select a piece to appear on a free-standing masonry wall at Salem Road and Achilles Road, just south of Hwy. 401. The corner of Salem and Achilles serves as the eastern gateway to the Salem Centre Business Area.

The contest is now open until Friday, Aug. 22. The competition was originally scheduled to run until July 18 and was limited to Ajax residents.

It's open to artists, graphic designers and collaborative teams who reside or operate in Durham Region. The Town of Ajax reserves the right to determine artist eligibility. Prior experience in public art design is not required.

Designs must reflect the Town's history, heritage, culture, diversity and/or its natural features, and must include the words Salem Centre Business Area in the design. The winning design will be selected on the basis of artistic merit, technical proficiency and relationship to the site.

The winning artist will receive a $1,000 honourarium, and recognition through a number of mediums, including an official unveiling, the Town's Web site, media communications and the Community Recreation and Parks Guide.

A selection panel will review all submissions. The panel may include artists, community representatives, architects, elected officials and Town staff.

For more information, including all the rules and how to apply, visit www.townofajax.com.