Public art is artwork in a public place that is designed for the general public to interact with and experience. Public art encompasses a wide range of styles and mediums, from historic bronze statues in parks to contemporary interactive installations and community art projects. Art in the public realm is often intended to interpret local history or culture, evoke a sense of place, or address specific social issues. Public art is usually temporary, although it can also be permanent.
Modern public art can be more conceptual than figurative, and it is important to consider how it will be received by the audience when creating it. In addition, public art can provide a platform for social activism, and many artists use it to express political or personal ideas. For example, American street artist Keith Haring used his murals to promote awareness about the AIDS epidemic and to challenge societal taboos.
A successful public art project will take into account the context in which it will be displayed, including aesthetics and scale. Public artworks in large parks, for instance, may be dwarfed by nearby tall buildings or trees, and it is important to make sure the work will be able to be seen from a distance. Small-scale works can be more intimate, but they must still be able to engage the viewer.
Integrated public artworks, which are incorporated into the design of an existing structure, are another popular form of public art. Examples include a sculpture that is integrated into street paving, an etched glass wall in a public building, or an architectural element like a fountain. For example, in Melbourne, Australia, the sculpture View Site 17 1995 by Ray Thomas, a Gunnai artist, is made in bronze that is integrated into the bluestone paving of Collins Street. The sculpture depicts the Koorie creation story of Karak Gurok, the Seven Sisters.
It is important to determine how a public artwork will be maintained and protected. Public artworks with water, electrical components, or painted surfaces will require more maintenance than those that are simply a sculpture or a mural. A maintenance plan should specify who will be responsible for maintaining the piece and how often, as well as any special requirements. The maintenance plan should also address any potential problems that may arise, such as vandalism or weather damage.
A public artwork should be a reflection of the community it serves, and it is important to involve the community in its development. A good way to do this is through community workshops, where participants can contribute ideas for the work. This can help to foster a sense of ownership of the piece and encourage people to visit it.
Public artworks can take years to be approved, funded, and created, especially when they are on a large scale. The process can be complex, and it is important to work with a team that includes the artist, architects, designers, construction teams, local residents, civic leaders, funding agencies, approval agencies, and local arts organizations. Once the public artwork is installed, it can be a powerful tool for revitalizing communities and inspiring people to create their own works of art.