Art in Public Space: Permission and Freedom

Public art can come from multiple spaces, and could be done for multiple reasons. The overarching theme of public art has multiple genres and subgenres. Some of the most common genres would be Graffiti, Street Art, and Contemporary Art. These communities break down into multiple sub genres and definitions of public art. For some it isn’t even public art. 

No matter what angle you come from, one thing is certain; once you give this art to a public space it is not yours anymore. This art or act of self expression can be perceived any way the viewer wishes to perceive it. We as the creators cannot control this perception and this leads me to a couple of questions:

•  As the creators, should it be a priority to connect with the community you are creating in?
•  How often do we think about our relationship to our viewers, and how important is that relationship?
•  Where is your place in public art and who is your audience? Have you ever thought about this?
• What other roles can a person play when they are not the artist? If this is you, how do you play a role in ensuring the art in your community stays true to that community?