What is Public Art?
The classic images evoked by the phrase ‘Public Art’ are usually of static bronze or monolithic stone structures. While these images of grand works of metal and stone have a well-established place in the artistic lexicon, they only encompass a portion of what is regarded as contemporary public art. As all artistic definitions expand, contract, and evolve over time, so has the contemporary view of public art.

Today, public art has moved beyond that of permanence and solidity, seeking to engage the community in a manner that, while not excluding the methods of the past, brings them to life as a part of the community. Contemporary public art is not merely an aspect of the landscape, but also explores ideas of personal and community engagement, the context and recontextualization of place, and it foments the exchange of ideas and identity within a community.

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1. What is Public Art?
2. Who serves on the Public Art Commission?
3. How can I be involved in Ithaca’s Public Art scene?
4. How do I proceed?