Public spaces are vital contributors to the physical design and the social fabric of urban areas. For centuries they have been platforms for public gatherings, both social and political, and for leisure activities. Sometimes artwork enhances or defines public space. Historically that art has typically commemorated events or people. More recently, temporary and quasi-permanent public art installations occupy public spaces. The process and the practice of art in public space is the focus of this graduate certificate program. All stakeholders in the process are considered: artists, community members, city planners, public and private sponsors, municipal government officials, and final users, amongst others. Physical, historical and socio-political context is also addressed.
There is a vital connection between fine art and urban planning. For planners, placemaking involves the use of public art to revitalize cities. For artists, understanding the public realm as a locus of expression is important. College of DAAP is the home for the study of both art and planning, and this certificate program bridges the two.