What is Public Art?
PUBLIC ART refers to creative works in any medium that are intentionally designed for public spaces. These artworks are placed in locations that are open and accessible to all, inviting connection, reflection, and interaction across a broad and diverse audience.
Public art is art for everyone! It transforms everyday places into spaces of meaning, creativity, and engagement.
Public Art Forms
Public art is not limited by medium and can take many forms. It could be:
- Any kind of media, including visual, digital, audio, or performance
- Temporary or permanent
- Located indoors or outdoors
- Two-dimensional (e.g. murals) or three-dimensional (e.g. sculpture)
Public art can be integrated as part of an environment or structure such as buildings, paving, street furniture, handrails, fencing, lighting or other features.
What Public Art Does
Public art should change the way audiences experience and understand their environment. It can:
- Surprise or captivate passersby
- Engage one or more of the senses
- Spark conversations
- Increase social, cultural and environmental awareness
- Reflect community aspirations and values
- Transform spaces
Why Public Art Matters
The value of public art extends far beyond aesthetics. It contributes to:
- Placemaking and stronger sense of community identity
- Education and knowledge-sharing
- Tourism and economic growth
- Innovation, well-being, and sustainability
- Cultural connection and reconciliation
A growing body of research shows that public art enhances social, cultural, and economic capital. It connects people to place, fosters creativity, and creates opportunities for meaningful engagement. Studies have also shown tangible benefits including increased tourism, stronger local economies, and deeper community engagement and pride.