Public Art

When trying to define public art, provide examples, describe the audience/themes and explain the purpose of public art...I found that all these things kind of run together. Public art to me seems like art that is displayed (and maybe even made for) the public. This is not to say that it appeals to everyone in the public but I would definitely say a vast majority. It may be there to inform people of a certain area or give the area an identity. It seems like public art is important in politics because it may differ from culture to culture. Public art certainly tends to draw attention. It often times spurs communication (which could be advertising). Think about that really strange piece of art you may have seen one time...didn't it make you talk about it? Or at least ask questions about it? Often times public art represents something. For example, I am from Sandy Springs, GA. In my community, there are painted turtles all over the city. These turtles were auctioned off for charity. This brings a sense of togetherness to our community and kind of gives it an identity. Other examples of public art that came to mind include: the Bellagio Fountains, statues, the Palm Tree Islands (in Dubai), landscaping, and graffiti.

One of the Sandy Springs turtles!