Discover Public Art:

Appreciate Creative Treasures Near You

The concept of public art is as wide open as the domain it claims. Typically public art refers to original works of art in any artistic medium (bronze, stone, paints, etc.) for temporary or permanent placement in outdoor or indoor settings and is accessible to all members of the public.

Monuments, memorials and civic statuary are among the oldest examples of public art. Architecture and architectural detail also fulfills the definition of public art, which also can include landscape features, streetscape design features (benches, lighting), site-specific works (sculptures), community enhancement projects (artistically designed/painted fire hydrants, garbage cans, sewer covers), and more. Graffiti is also a form of public art. Michelangelo, Pablo Picasso, and Joan Miro are among some of the great masters who have created famous works of public art.

Peruse a directory of US sculpture parks and gardens: http://www.artnut.com/usa.html#Anchor-North-2821

Does your child enjoy Beverly Cleary books? Characters are memorialized in a special sculpture garden in Portland , Oregon – see: http://www.multcolib.org/kids/cleary/

One of the largest children’s garden and Sculpture Parks in USA is located in Grand Rapids, Michigan and offers wonderful experiences for kids of all ages: http://www.meijergardens.org/gardens_experience/childrens_garden.php

If you are a Charles Schultz fan, you’ll love the 55 statues dedicated to the beloved Peanuts characters, which are sprinkled throughout the streets of Santa Rosa, California. Read all about it: http://santarosa.about.com/od/outings/ss/walkrrs_3.htm

If you are hoping for a more interactive art adventure, consider going to any of thousands of nationwide art shows and festivals.

To search for an event near you, go to: http://www.whatsonwhen.com/sisp/index.htm?fx=event.search&loc_id=130993&sort=DATE&cat_id=1483

This Gainesville, Florida art festival is a great example of a kid-friendly destination. Check out the Imagination Station:
http://www.gvlculturalaffairs.org/website/programs_events/dfas/downtown_art_fest.html

Another website offering links to Kids & Family events across the U.S. is:
http://www.istc.org/sisp/?fx=theme&loc_id=131145&cat_id=767