Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 01/09/2025

Home

gives pride, connection, and a sense of meaning to residents. The city recently used a public art installation to feature diverse members of the community. She believes that when community members see themselves in public art displays that it strengthens their feeling of inclusion. Notably, the city has had to build its art program slowly over time in order to gain acceptance from the community. She related this story about a resident that approached her (as one of the public officials responsible) about one of the installations. She recalls the gentleman saying: "This is a terrorist, and you have now elevated a terrorist on our public street, giving it complete credibility, and they are out to destroy our country, and as a veteran, I am so disgusted with you right now." Her response was to use the moment to have a conversation about religious and cultural issues in a positive way. Public art was used to facilitate that conversation, and it was her hope that such conversations might lead to people better understanding each other and getting past issues that divide them. Nonetheless, she is aware that some long term residents may view public art as frivolous expenditures for the community. Her impression is that many young individuals and families have chosen to live in the city because its orientation toward the arts. People that are newer to the community seem to have a really high appreciation of public art. The city's brand has gained national attention and one of the main streets in town was named a"Great Street"by the American Planning Association, in part, for its inclusion of public art along this street corridor. The primary beneficiaries of public art in her opinion are the downtown business interests. Also, people of color and others with less of a public voice, benefit from art that recognizes their contribution to a diverse community. The local historical society has benefited by being given a platform to tell the story of the community. Local artists also benefit by having a place to display and promote their work. The city has approached public art with its eyes wide open and has planned for both short-term and long-term expenses. 96