The Definition and Purpose of Public Art

Public art is a diverse genre, encompassing a variety of practices and art forms. Unlike private works of artwork, it is often rooted in a specific place and is not typically intended for touring exhibitions. As such, there is an ongoing debate and discussion regarding the definition and purpose of public artwork. It is essential that public art has a clear purpose and is accessible to the general population. Here are some important points to remember when creating public works of arts.

Interactive public art is meant for public use and encourages public participation. It may include light, video, or musical components. For example, the Ontario Science Centre fountain was designed to be a musical instrument where water jets force water through musical mechanisms. Jim Pallas’ Century of Light was an outdoor mandala made of lights, but it was erected for only 25 years before being destroyed. Maurizio Bolognini’s interactive public installation, ‘Burke and Wills,’ is an excellent example of this kind of art. It’s easy to change the artwork on your cell phone, making it an interactive piece.

Public art has been around for thousands of years. The purpose of this work of art is to engage the community, promote well-being, and create a sense of place. Sculpture was especially important in the ancient Greek and Roman cultures, as mass-produced statues of Augustus Caesar were erected in various public locations to communicate the attributes of a great leader and reaffirm the power of the ruler. This practice has continued into more modern societies.

In addition to the aesthetic appeal of public art, it is important to consider how the process of selection works. For example, community and formal arts expertise are both necessary for public art. Most public entities choose a balanced approach when creating site-specific selection committees. Denver Public Art, for example, appoints a panel of local community members as well as more experienced artists, to ensure local input to the process. This approach makes public art more responsive to the needs of the community.

Public art projects are a valuable way to improve a community’s environment and enhance the sense of pride in a city. In addition to improving a community’s quality of life, public art can improve the quality of public spaces and promote community pride. In fact, some of the most popular and successful public art projects are collaborative, involving the artist, the community, and the surrounding area. If this is the case, then the process will be beneficial to the community and the artist.

Public art has expanded beyond the boundaries of traditional artwork. It now encompasses a broader spectrum of artistic practices and the public realm. It is often created to create a sense of place and well-being. In addition to physical public artworks, it is also the result of artistic interventions aimed at improving the quality of life of a community. In recent years, the concept of public art has evolved and been embraced by many sectors of society.