by CGN Ginny
21. March 2011 13:49
The City of Chicago recently announced upcoming public art project opportunities for artists. You may download information and an application here:
Many people in the art world bring up the Percent for Art Ordinance in Chicago from time to time, and the time to pay attention is now, when new projects and opportunities come up for artists. According to the City's website, "In 1978, the Chicago City Council unanimously approved the Percent for Art Ordinance, which stipulates that a 1.33% of the cost of constructing or renovating municipal buildings and public spaces be devoted to original artwork on the premises; it also stipulates that at least half of the commissions be awarded to Chicago area artists to provide opportunities to the local arts community. At that time, Chicago was one of the first municipalities, and the largest, to legislate the incorporation of public art into its official building program. Today, there are more than 200 similar programs throughout the United States, due in large part to the success of the Chicago ordinance." It's an ordinance that's not perfect, but it's been a key part of our cultural development and a strong, beneficial link between the art and corporate worlds. Together with the Chicago Public Art Program, the ordinance has brought more than 700 works of art to our city's public areas for all to enjoy.
Details about the latest opportunities may be found online. Contact the City for more info.
A map of Chicago's Public Art may be found here. Let us know what some of your favorite public art works are.
Virginio Ferrari, Being Born, 1983, stainless steel, 25' x 25' x 20', Intersection of Ohio & Orleans Sts, City of Chicago Public Art Collection
For more info, visit the City's website or contact:
Benjamin Kelner
Communications Specialist
Chicago Office of Tourism and Culture
312-744-8948
www.ChicagoCulturalCenter.org
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