Generally speaking, public art is a piece of sculpture or artwork designed to be exhibited in a publicly accessible setting. It can be created by the artists themselves or commissioned by a local government.
A public art installation is usually designed for interactivity and can include components such as water, music, video, and light. This type of art is often considered to be more accessible than traditional art presentations. Some of the most popular street art districts can be found in many cities, although they are relatively small.
The term “public art” has evolved over time to encompass various forms of art. Today, it includes both temporary and permanent exhibitions, along with art that is created specifically for a public space. It also includes murals, architectural sculpture, and other forms of ephemeral displays.
In the late twentieth century, many artists began to challenge the notion of the commodity status of art. These works of art challenged the public’s view of artwork and redefined concepts such as community, collective identity, and social engagement. This change was furthered by the “cancel culture” movement, which raised questions about the durability of historical artworks.
One example of public art is the famous “street art” districts of New York City and Los Angeles. Unlike traditional art presentations, these installations can be viewed by any passersby. These areas have been a welcome addition to many cities. They have been promoted by local governments and encouraged by graffiti artists.
Another form of public art is called “Land Art.” This new genre of art focuses on the physical environment of a given area, such as a park or an outdoor sculpture. These installations can be large scale and site specific. Examples of Land Art are monumental earthworks and the works of Christo and Jeanne-Claude.
The history of public art is a long one. In Antiquity, many public sculptures and statues were built by the Roman authorities. The Parthenon in Athens is a well-known and supreme example of public art. This temple was built 447-422 BCE. It is now housed in the British Museum in London.
During the Cultural Revolution in China, the government encouraged overtly political public art. During the 1970s and 1980s, overtly political artwork was seen in Belfast, Los Angeles, and New York. These artworks were a result of the government’s desire to build a more open and tolerant society.
A number of contemporary artists are also working in the public domain. These artists are incorporating sustainability into their work, including plans for disassembly. These artists also create interactive works, such as water jets that force water through sound-producing mechanisms.
Some of the most important public art of the modern era has consisted of a global network of public museums. These museums are free and are designed to educate the public about arts and culture. Other examples of public art are Nelson’s Column in Trafalgar Square, the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, and the Statue of Liberty New York Harbour.