Public art is an important part of a community’s identity, and it is often a central point of interest for many people living in a city or town. It is an important source of community pride and it can also be a powerful tool to help address problems that a community may be facing.
There are a wide range of types of public art, including murals and sculptures, memorials, integrated architectural or landscape architectural work, digital new media, and performance art. Some types of public art are permanent and others are temporary, but all are designed to create a sense of place in a space.
Murals are a popular type of public art, especially in cities. Usually made in tribute to a particular person or group, they can be large-scale and highly visible. They can be created using a variety of mediums, including paint and stencils. They are also sometimes made using computer-generated imagery (CGI) or a technique known as light mapping, which allows them to be tailored to the features of a specific building.
Sculpture is another common form of public art, and it can be large or small. Artists often use materials such as stone, bronze or stainless steel, as well as natural elements such as water or plants. These can be designed to last for a long time in an outdoor environment, and they can serve as a reminder of the nature around us or of a meaningful event.
In addition to commemoration, public sculpture can be a way to inspire people to reconsider their relationship to the world around them. For instance, Siah Armajani’s Bridge Over Tree in Brooklyn Bridge Park encourages viewers to think about their connection to nature, even in a city.
A number of contemporary artists have taken up the practice of creating unsanctioned works in public spaces, which are then exhibited publicly, for example in galleries or on the street. These artworks are generally designed to be provocative and challenge social norms and stereotypes, with the aim of provoking conversation.
These unsanctioned artworks can be an opportunity to raise awareness of a relevant social issue, or simply be enjoyed by the public. For example, Montreal-based artist MissMe makes portraits of strong women from history (usually women of color) in wheat paste posters and stickers that are hung in the streets of cities all over the world.
ACCA In The City: Training Ground, 2015 |
The artwork called out to passers-by with unexpected beckoning, coaxing and controlling commands. It highlighted a type of communication that is usually overlooked in public space, and it was an exciting experience to watch the live performers on stage.
While most public art is large-scale, smaller-scale artworks are becoming increasingly popular amongst contemporary artists. This is because they can be more intimate and personal to the viewer, and they can also help to counteract the visual impact of other buildings, parks and trees in a public space.