Wednesday 6 April 2011

Why introduce public art into our region?


Introducing public art allows the residents of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo to take pride and ownership of their community and their community’s identity. Works of public art have the potential to provide landmarks and define meeting places. The development of public places provides opportunities for cultural interaction and celebration. Local heritage may be reflected through permanent or temporary art works and adds to the character of a place. Works that reflect the unique identity of our community have the potential to provide a collection represents “us” through works that residents can identify as “ours”. These pieces can improve our quality of life and express our unique history, culture, and community spirit.

A Public Art Program can stimulate the public and private sectors by creating common planning and design objectives when developing plazas, parks and open spaces, streetscape elements, etc. In cities with successful public art programs, the private sector has embraced public art as a vehicle to enhance their own image in the marketplace, while providing amenities for their employees and residents to enjoy. Inclusion of public art can increase the marketability and economic value of a project, and is often used as a ‘branding’ tool. Public art gives meaning to a place by interpreting the social, historical, cultural and natural environment. It is a vital ingredient in the cultural fabric and streetscape of any dynamic region. With the ability to reflect the identity of a place, give voice to a community, and build relationships between diverse groups, a Public Art Program is an opportunity for growth and development.

For more information about the structure and development of our own unique Municipal Public Art Program, attend the Public Art Action Forum on April 14, 2011.



















For more information click here to visit the Municipal webpage on the Public Art Action Forum.

Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo
780.743.7966

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