Public Art

Public Art encourages a heightened sense of place, can inspire the spirit and provide opportunities for private reflection in public space. Public Art is part of what translates an address into a neighborhood; it can provoke thought, communication and engagement. Public art challenges people to define their own aesthetic. The City of Reno’s Public Art Program is a component of the Arts and Culture Division of the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department. Public Art in Reno is funded in several ways including the 2% for Art Ordinance which ensures that public art has a place in all City of Reno buildings and parks. Reno’s public art collection is curated to include examples of many different genres and styles from representational to abstract and a variety of materials which provide our citizens and visitors with a diverse collection. From bronze to wood, ceramic to steel, the collection as a whole has substance and is of the highest possible quality in terms of craft and engages our citizenry. Knowing that not everyone will connect with all pieces in the collection, we are confident you’ll find something here to love. We hope that by providing the context for the collection, even if you don’t like a specific piece you’ll understand the artist’s intention.

Public Art Funding
Funding public art is a broad endeavor. It can be funded by state, local or federal governments. It also offers funding opportunities for percent-for-art programs, public agencies, the general public, individuals, churches, educational institutions, museums, hospitals, corporations, and private foundations. Displaying public art is a community-wide mission with no boundaries for participation and sponsorship.

Call for Artwork
The City of Reno seeks artists to display their work from October 2010 through October 2011 at its three galleries. Visit the newsroom for more complete information.

Artist Registry Form