Public art is a diverse and dynamic form of creative expression designed specifically for exhibition in spaces that are readily accessible to the general population. It ranges from monumental sculptures adorning city squares to intricate murals gracing urban facades, and it reflects the vastness of our shared human experience. It is a vibrant mechanism in the democratisation of culture, bridging the gap between the ‘art world’ and communities at large.
The process of realising a work of public art is incredibly complex, as it often involves a delicate balance between public sentiment, cultural context and logistical planning. A public artwork can be a powerful symbol of remembrance and hope, as well as a political statement and catalyst for change. Therefore, it can be highly polarising, with its own unique set of challenges and pitfalls to overcome.
It can also be difficult to find a balance between allowing the work to speak for itself and ensuring that it is accessible to a wide audience. While some works of public art are purely aesthetic and non-interactive, others require an active engagement by the viewer in order to be understood and appreciated. In a society as diverse as ours, the polarity of opinion on public art is to be expected; it is an integral part of its identity as an object that attracts attention and provokes thought.
Unlike a piece of studio or gallery art, which can be sold or removed at any time, a public artwork must be rigorously engineered to withstand the demands of its outdoor environment and maintain its integrity for up to 50 years. It is for this reason that many works of public art are rooted in place and are unable to be transferred from one location to another like a touring exhibition.
This can be especially challenging for projects that carry a heavy symbolic weight, such as Jeff Koons’ Bouquet of Tulips, a monument to the victims of the Bataclan theatre attack in Paris in 2015. The sculpture is depicted as a hand holding tulips and was intended to symbolise remembrance, hope and healing. However, it was met with widespread criticism and was ultimately withdrawn from display.
Some public art is intentionally designed to encourage direct interaction by the public, such as a fountain or sculpture that contains musical or light components that can be activated by people. This is known as interactivity and it can be a wonderful way to create an engaging experience for visitors to a space.
Alternatively, some public artworks are ephemeral, with a life span of only a few months or years. This can include projection mapping projects, events or even temporary murals. These kinds of ephemeral public art initiatives can be a great way to engage the community and raise awareness for important issues, while also promoting local businesses and talent. Studies show that public art has a wide range of benefits, from boosting tourism and economic growth to combating social isolation and anxiety.