The City of Richmond’s Public Art Program is dedicated to a public art selection process that engages neighborhood residents, artists, community and civic stakeholders in an active and productive dialogue to articulate and represent the community’s shared vision as well as aspirations for the future of Richmond as a thriving creative city. Public Art can influence the quality of life for all of Ri
chmond’s residents and consequently contributes to our community and economic development by creating a sense of pride in our neighborhoods as well as adding an element of beauty. The Public Art Program strives to develop public art that reflects our history and culture, while also celebrating our shared vision and aspirations for the future. We endeavor to showcase inspiring artwork in a diversity of artistic styles by regional, national, and international artists. The Public Art Commission, created in 1991, is funded through the Percent for the Art fund. The Percent-for-Art program ensures that the highest quality art will have a place in public spaces throughout the city. The program encourages the participation of the surrounding communities in various stages of the artworks' development. The 1% allocation for art is earmarked from the city's Capital Budget of appropriate new or renovation construction projects having budgets over $250,000. The Public Art Commission is made up of 11 volunteer members that are appointed by the Planning Commission. The members represent the visual arts, urban design, architecture and arts education fields and also have citizen representatives to ensure that the communities and interests of all stakeholders in Richmond are represented.
