Public art is artwork or design elements that are displayed in public spaces. Typically free of charge, public art is created by professional artists, who take into account their physical placement in a public space, as well as the social, cultural, and historical context. This process encourages public participation and collaboration. Maine has generated $7,824,373 in funding for public art projects since 1982. Whether you live in a small town or large metropolitan area, there are many ways to enjoy public art.
Sculpture has become a popular form of public art in Australia. Sculptures, murals, and street art are all a part of public art. These pieces may be permanent or temporary, and many public art projects are a great way to enhance your city’s public space. Public artworks are also great way to increase your home’s value. By providing an attractive, welcoming space for everyone, you can also attract tourists. If you love wildlife, consider commissioning a public art piece to celebrate it. Many public art pieces have educational and awareness-raising value.
European public art includes monuments and buildings, and is often categorized according to its style. In the UK, public art includes the Neo-Classical National Gallery, the Gothic-style Houses of Parliament, and the Paris Opera House. Other examples of public art include the Statue of Liberty, the Pompidou Centre, and the Bilbao Guggenheim. The Pompidou Centre, for example, is a prime example of contemporary public art.
Public art is often site-specific, created to respond to the community and place it is installed in. Unlike private art, public art is rooted in a place and may not be suited for outdoor display. There are many different styles of public art throughout history. Today, public art is found in the form of digital new media, interactive art, and participatory performance or festival activities. It’s important to remember that public art is a valuable investment for any community.
Public sculpture often serves multiple purposes. Some artists make public works to beautify public spaces. For example, Jeff Koons’ Balloon Flower (1995-1999, New York City) and Siah Armajani’s Bridge Over Tree, both located in Brooklyn Bridge Park, sought to remind viewers of the importance of natural resources and a healthy environment. Some pieces are interactive, as in the case of the famous Bridge Over the River in Brooklyn, which is connected to the city’s park.
Temporary public art, on the other hand, is not permanent. Temporary public artworks, on the other hand, have a certain lifespan, which can range from a few hours to several years. Examples of temporary public artworks are projections, outdoor sculptures, and plants. In most cases, public artworks created for temporary displays are expected to last 20 to 50 years, although a sculpture may last for a longer period.
In addition to temporary works of art, public art can be used for long-term social programming. For example, students can create rainwater collection projects, or residents can harvest crops. This long-term public art requires a much different kind of maintenance than a piece created for an occasional exhibition. It may also involve a public-private partnership to help residents engage with the community. The latter type of public art may require a more time-consuming effort than a temporary installation, but the results can be worth it.