Public art can take many forms: murals, sculptures, video installations, architecture, and more. It can be displayed indoors or out, and it can be permanent or temporary. It may be located in a museum or private gallery, but it is often found in outdoor spaces such as parks, plazas, airports and shopping malls. It may be designed to interact with a space, such as the “hydraulophone” that Salifou Lindou created in Douala, or it may simply be meant to attract attention and interest through its visual impact.
The purpose of public art is to engage the audience in a dialogue about societal narratives, and its place within the larger culture. Public art has a long history, from the monumental pyramids of Egypt to ancient Greek temples and Roman statues. During the Renaissance, public art became a powerful symbol of civic pride and economic prosperity. In modern times, it has been a major part of city planning and development, including attracting tourists and businesses.
How to Do Public Art
The best public artwork is a work that resonates with a broad range of people and sparks a lively conversation about the issues it addresses. As such, the process of creating a public artwork is often highly collaborative. In addition to the artist, key collaborators can include the site, curator, funder, and local community.
When designing an artwork, consider the public space it will be in and research the area to understand its history, values, and sensitivities. It is also important to understand the legal requirements for a project, such as permitting and safety. It is helpful to meet with stakeholders and get feedback early on to ensure the project meets expectations.
Representational: Art that depicts or portrays events, objects or people in a realistic manner. Aesthetic: Art that appeals to the eye through formal relationships of line, color and form. Didactic: Art that instructs or enlightens, and might scold, preach, warn, or educate. Functional: Art that provides a useful service, such as providing entertainment or contemplation.
Whether they are a permanent part of a city landscape or a temporary installation, public artworks require ongoing maintenance and care to maintain their appearance and integrity. A proper plan and budget should be developed, which includes addressing the needs of specific groups, such as children or the elderly. It is important to involve the community throughout the planning and execution of a public art project, as it can improve acceptance and reduce controversy. Public artworks are a dynamic part of the cultural landscape and serve as important reflections of our shared values and beliefs. The discussions, controversies, and debates that accompany them help shape a more inclusive and participatory cultural landscape. We invite you to join the conversation by exploring our growing collection of public artworks from around the world. Then, share your own experiences and reflections in the comments. We are excited to learn from you!