Why Community Art Matters: The True Impact of Public Art in Cities

Think about the most famous cities in the world. Now think about a symbol of that city.
Did you picture Chicago’s silver bean?
The Statue of Liberty in New York City?
The Hollywood sign in Los Angeles?
The Eiffel Tower in Paris?

These iconic landmarks aren’t just tourist attractions, they’re powerful examples of public art shaping a city’s identity.

Public Art Creates a Sense of Place

Community art gives cities a distinct visual identity. From sculptures to murals, public art transforms common areas into meaningful spaces. It’s not just decoration. It’s a reflection of local culture, values, and history. The community you and I live in aren’t just land and buildings. They have a history. Recognizing that history connects us to our communities and to each other. Strong communities can’t exist without connection. We need to connect to each other  and our land. Public art provides the perfect conduit of connection. 

The Social and Economic Benefits of Community Art

Public art also offers real-world value that goes beyond aesthetics. Cities that invest in community art experience many benefits. 

One of these is increased foot traffic and tourism. How different would the cities we mentioned before be without their landmark art installations? Paris wouldn’t be Paris without the Eiffel tower. This iconic art project transforms the public space into something awe inspiring and worth traveling to. The increased tourism and foot traffic also support local economies, allowing the community to flourish. 

Public art also benefits the individual citizens of a community. It improves mental well being and morale. Public art is important for public health. In fact, studies have shown that cities with active public art programs enjoy stronger community ties and higher satisfaction among residents. Art brings people together, especially when it’s accessible and visible in shared spaces.

Public art doesn’t have to be big or grandiose. In my time in New York, I ran into a lot of art installations. One of my favorites is the “Life Underground” installation in the 14th/ 8th street subway station, by the artist Tom Otterness. It’s an ordinary station that I never went to with the intention of seeing art. But every time I found myself in that station, the little bronze statues made my day brighter. The dreary subway station became a place of whimsy and delight. That small artistic expression transformed the urban environment and boosted community engagement. It boosted my spirits and pulled me from my internal woes. I felt connected to the city in a new way. 

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Public art can have this effect in any city. It doesn’t need to be the largest city in the nation.  Citizens crave a centering identity and a source of joy, both of which public art can provide. 

Why Investing in Public Art Matters More Than Ever

In a digital age, physical connection to place is more important than ever. Public art offers a way to connect people to their physical space. It’s grounding and provides a concrete cultural identity. 

 

Public art celebrates and supports local talent. In the age of AI art, it’s more important than ever to acknowledge human skill. Employing local artists is a great way to support community members while creating a more beautiful public space.

 

Whether it's a commissioned bronze sculpture in a government building or a rotating art exhibit in a public courtyard, public artwork helps cities thrive socially, economically, and culturally.

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