Public art is artwork designed for a public space and meant to engage the community. It can be permanent or temporary, use any artistic medium including performance, be integrated into architecture and site design or stand alone as a freestanding sculpture or mural. It may be intended to beautify, enrich and entertain or elevate cultural history, address urban issues, support economic vitality and build community cohesion.
Whether the work is monumental and defines a cityscape, or small and site-specific, public art can have a huge impact. Often public art is a form of social propaganda, raising awareness about political or social issues. Other times it is meant to act as a tool for introspection and communal interaction. The beauty of public art is that it can take many forms, be interpreted in different ways and be appreciated by diverse audiences.
The most important aspect of any public artwork is how it makes the audience feel. This is not always easy, and the varying responses to public art can be an important indicator that the work has achieved its goal. The controversies and discussions that often accompany public artwork demonstrate the need to foster a more diverse, inclusive and participatory cultural landscape.
A wide variety of artists have used public art to convey a message. For example, the sculptural installation Bridge over Tree by Siah Armajani in New York is meant to remind viewers of the importance of preserving our natural resources. Yinka Ilori’s vibrant crosswalks in London highlight the power of pattern, storytelling and color to connect people with their environment.
In the past, public artworks served multiple purposes. The Romans used to mark their walls with impulsive inscriptions, like well wishes, spells and political slogans. The Sistine Chapel ceiling, created by Michelangelo, illustrates a complex narrative about faith, fate and the hereafter. More recently, Keith Haring’s graffiti and street art challenged the boundaries of what was considered to be “art” while Banksy’s anonymous work of activism and destruction has inspired a whole movement of anti-establishment public artists.
Current public art models often include community participation in the selection process. Many cities have commissioning panels that are comprised of locals with a mix of formal arts expertise and community members to ensure the best results. Denver, for example, has a public art committee that focuses on community interests and responsibilities in addition to aesthetics.
When creating a public artwork, it is important to consider its maintenance needs. This can be done through a contract between the artist and the commissioning agency that outlines the nature of the piece, its schedule for completion and installation, payment structure, insurance requirements and maintenance responsibilities. It is also beneficial to create an education plan to help the community understand and appreciate the artworks. This can be done through public art classes and supplemental materials, such as a website or app that links to additional information about the work. Keeping the public informed will encourage collective appreciation and a sense of ownership of the art.