Public art is a visual art form that is created specifically for the general public. It can be temporary or permanent, indoors or outdoors, and in any medium such as paintings, sculpture, installations, murals, and even architecture or infrastructure. Public art has been known to bring communities together, solve community problems and beautify neighborhoods and cities worldwide. It can also inspire future generations, as well as evoke emotions and provoke discussion from the public.
Unlike private art, which is bought and hung on walls for viewing, public art is created for the community as a whole to be enjoyed by everyone. It can be found in places such as parks, libraries, airports, schools, hospitals and other public spaces. Many times, these artworks are commissioned by local governments to be created in specific locations for the enjoyment of all. These projects often involve the collaboration of many parties, including artists, architects, design professionals, community residents and civic leaders.
The development and creation of public art can be a long process, with numerous challenges along the way. However, it can be very rewarding for all involved. It is important for public art to have the support of the community in order to be successful and to gain acceptance. When a public piece is controversial, it is important to remember that there are many different viewpoints and opinions out there, and that is a part of the beauty of the artwork.
While some public works are meant to commemorate and memorialize events, others have more abstract intentions. For example, Iranian-born Minneapolis-based artist Siah Armajani wanted her sculptural installation Bridge Over Tree to encourage viewers to consider the importance of their natural environment in their daily lives through a phenomenological experience. Other artists seek to change the viewer’s perspective of their urban surroundings, as in the case of Richard Serra’s minimalist Tilted Arc, which was installed in Foley Square in New York City in 1989.
Most public art is designed to stay in place for a long period of time – sometimes centuries. As such, it can be difficult to remove a piece of public art without jeopardizing its integrity. This is especially true of public sculptures, as many of these pieces are made of highly durable materials such as bronze, stone and granite. For this reason, removing these pieces to another location is considered to be stealing the work and goes against the ethics of public art.
Local policymakers can create a more equitable climate for public art by encouraging the participation of marginalized communities in the community-wide decision making processes that determine the location, scope and budget of public artworks. This can include community workshops, town hall meetings and focus groups.