Public Art In Boston

Overview

Public art in Boston is vibrant and transformative. The Mayor's Office of Arts and Culture and the Boston Art Commission foster the creation and collection of artworks that reflect the people, ideas, histories, and futures of Boston. Art is experienced by everyone for free.

Curatorial Vision

The city seeks public art that is driven by an artistically strong vision, enhances the diversity and equity of the existing collection, engages communities, directly responds to and enriches the urban environment, and possesses durability appropriate to the lifespan of the work.

Programs

• A Canvas of Culture: Public art at Boston Public Schools through the Percent for Art fund.
• Boston Artists-in-Residence: Artists partner with City departments to reimagine a more creative and equitable Boston.
• Paintbox: Annual selection of artists to paint utility boxes across the City.
• Transformative Public Art Program: Commission of several murals and temporary projects every year.
• Un-monument | Re-monument | De-monument: Multi-year program to reimagine Boston's commemorative landscape through temporary public art installations, free public events, and educational content.
• Public Art Conservation: Caring for artworks that shape the city's public spaces.

How to Propose

If you're interested in proposing your own public art project, learn more about the process. View the Public Art Policy Document and submit a Public Art + Design Application.

Boston Art Commission Meetings

• Meetings held every second Tuesday of the month from 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Resources

• Boston Public Art Map: Celebrate diverse cultural stories across the City.
• Virtual Gallery: Neighborhood Signs: Browse reimagined designs created by local artists.
• Public Art Research: Art collection research request form.
• Public Art Funding: Guidance for public art on private property.

Contact

• Arts and Culture: 617-635-4445
• Public Art Questions: [email protected]