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Public Art

Percent for Art Program Arts in the Capitol Percent for Art Opportunities Percent for Art Directory Public Art Information Public Art Resources

“Public art means a more vibrant quality of life and a stronger creative economy for all Maine's communities.”
– Governor John Elias Baldacci

Understanding Public Art

‘Public art’ refers to artwork that has been planned and executed with the specific intention of being exhibited in the public domain. The implication is that it is accessible to all members of society. Public artwork is a significant facet of public culture and features a distinct working practice with particular importance given to site specificity, community involvement, and collaboration. The term can also include private art which is exhibited in a public space or publicly accessible buildings. The general understanding for Public Art is that it is openly accessible and exists in the sphere of public culture.

	Untitled by Paul R Heroux. 16' diameter glazed tile mural at Marine Resources Department, West Boothbay Harbor

Civic statuary such as monuments and memorials are perhaps the most recognized forms of public art. These works are usually officially sanctioned by an administrative entity and funded through common coffers. Other forms of public art can include architectural elements, park benches, street lighting, bus stops, murals, and even graffiti. Public art does not need to limited to physical objects. Music in the park, parades, street theatre, public poetry, and other cultural events in shared spaces are also forms of Public Art.

The State of Maine has long supported art as part of Maine’s public culture. In 1979 the Maine legislature implemented a 1% for art policy. The program has placed work in over 400 sites across the state of Maine, resulting in the commissioning of over 1,300 works of public art throughout the state. Along with Maine’s grand natural beauty, exceptional architecture, and rich heritage, these works contribute to Maine’s outstanding cultural character.

The Maine Arts Commission offers advice and information for public art planning and programming. The Maine Arts Commission provides leadership, information resources, and process models to successfully locate and select superior artwork for interior or exterior public locations.

For more information contact Kerstin Gilg, public art associate at 207/287-6719 or kerstin.gilg@maine.gov.