purpose of public art

Public art projects may result in works that are:
Functional: where the primary purpose of the art or design element is utilitarian such as seating, lighting, furniture, bollards, signage, rubbish bin surrounds, window treatments, reception areas, door handles and carpets, for example.

Decorative: where the primary purpose is to aesthetically enhance an environment or structure. For example, outcomes may be rainwater heads, furniture, paving elements, and lighting. They may also be functional, iconic, integrated, or site specific.

Iconic: a stand alone or significant work, where the artist's approach is largely independent of other considerations. An 'art-for-art's-sake' approach. Examples of iconic works include sculpture, water features, lighting or multi media. The response is often site-specific.

Integrated: works that are fully incorporated within the design of the built or natural environment. Integrated works may include floor and window design, lighting, landscaping and associated elements. Integrated works may also be decorative and/or functional.

Site specific: designed specifically for, and responsive to, a particular site. Could apply to all listed categories. Work responds to the site through scale, material, form, and concept.

Interpretive: where the primary purpose is to describe, educate and comment on issues, events or situations. They may be functional, decorative, iconic, and site-specific. Examples include signage, pavement inlays, sculpture, seating, landscaping, murals, text based work.

Commemorative: where the primary purpose is to acknowledge and recall an event, activity, or person, important to the local community and its visitors. Commemorative artworks may be sculpture, murals, pavement details, and gardens.

Temporary: where the work is not intended to be permanent. A piece or event may be momentary or remain for a fixed time. Wide-ranging outcomes are possible and include performance, garden planting, text, installations and multi media.

What can be achieved through public art?
Public art can assist commissioning agencies to address their broader policies and strategies as they relate to the community, social development, the environment and planning.