Public art is often commissioned by municipalities or other government bodies. The process of applying for and receiving approval for the installation of a public artwork involves several steps and considerations. The artist or artists who conceive the public artwork must obtain the necessary planning permits and insurance, fabricate the artwork, install it, and provide a one-year warrantee. Public art is an important way to show appreciation for artists, their creative efforts, and the community. It can be placed anywhere in the community and adjacent rights-of-way.

Performance-based public artworks often include dance, music, or theatre. These pieces are temporary and often created in response to specific characteristics of the public space. The artists may use musical scores, choreography, or acting directions to convey their message to audiences. The public can enjoy this type of artwork while on their daily routine. These artworks are great for generating conversations and heightened public awareness in the community. Public art is also free to the public and can be photographed and shared with others.

For information about the process of creating public artworks, look up the Public Art Fund. The organization focuses on bringing dynamic contemporary art to a diverse public in New York City. Their ambitious free exhibitions are international in scope and impact and provide visitors with a powerful experience of art. As a nonprofit organization, Public Art Fund relies on donations and memberships from individuals and businesses to sustain its programs. Its mission is to bring art to people and communities and to foster appreciation for it.

Another method to keep abreast of public art is to follow public art news. By reading related articles, you will learn about new programs, issues, and potential open calls for artists. You can even set up Google Alerts or Yahoo! Alerts to automatically scan the Internet for articles related to public art. These alerts will notify you by email on a regular basis. They will notify you whenever new articles about public art are published. If you’re interested, you can also subscribe to the public art network to receive updates.

Public art programs vary by location and city, but they all share common themes and are designed to be displayed in public spaces. The most common examples of public art are sculptures, memorials, murals, mosaics, vinyl wraps, and projection mapping. These programs are designed to inspire reflection and encourage engagement, as well as transform a community. In addition to enhancing the aesthetic appeal of a community, public art projects transform the landscape and challenge people to define their own aesthetic.

Public art is often permanent or temporary. Permanent works are built to be there for many years and may even become a part of the community’s built environment. However, temporary works can only be installed for a certain period of time. While permanent pieces are protected by the Visual Artists Rights Act, they must undergo a process called deaccessioning. Permanent public art is usually expected to be on site for 20 to 50 years, but outdoor sculptures may last a decade or more.