From towering sculptures adorning public squares to intricate murals gracing urban facades, public art paints a vivid portrait of collective creativity and shared experiences. As a vital mechanism in the democratisation of culture, public art breaks through the confines of galleries and museums to bring art directly to the people.
While the definition of public art varies, it is generally understood to refer to artworks that are installed or staged in publicly accessible spaces such as parks, city streets and squares, or buildings. The work must be located in a place that is open to the general public and can be easily reached. It is also usually a permanent structure, rather than a touring exhibit that moves from one location to another.
The artwork itself can be any medium, but it must have a direct connection with the community and place in which it is located. The work can take the form of a sculpture, painting, photograph, film, architectural installation or even a sound art piece. A large component of contemporary public art is digital, with works such as light projections on building facades or a large outdoor screen becoming increasingly common. The use of digital media in public artwork can allow the artist to create a new visual experience for the viewer that can be altered with the changing of the weather or season.
In addition to creating new visual experiences, the act of putting an artwork in the public sphere can encourage a sense of ownership for local residents. Public art can help to promote pride in a city, and is often seen as an investment that benefits the local economy. It can also encourage community engagement, with studies showing that participation in public art can lead to greater feelings of social inclusion and reduce stress levels.
It is essential that the artist and community collaborate to realise a successful public artwork, particularly one with a long-term presence. The process can involve an extensive consultation between the artist, architect, project team and community representatives. Involvement in the process can also include a public exhibition, which allows the public to contribute their ideas about the artwork.
Whether it is a mural by street artist Eduardo Kobra, who has painted over 79 locations around the world, or an installation at a local park by Roy Lichtenstein – both of which are in the collection of Ohio State University – a successful public artwork will not only have an aesthetic impact but will also become a part of a place and its history. This helps to foster a sense of ownership amongst local residents, and it can also provide a lasting legacy that transcends generations.
As a result, many public art projects are designed to serve the community as much as they are intended to inspire joy and encourage a sense of civic ownership. In addition, the democratisation of culture that public art can engender often leads to the development of community-led initiatives and grassroots campaigns that empower locals to shape their own cultural landscape.