Celebrating 40 Years of Ottawa's Public Art Program

Forty years ago, the City of Ottawa’s Public Art Program was born. On February 6, 1985, Ottawa City Council approved a report from the Visual Arts Advisory Committee, laying the foundation for a corporate program dedicated to acquiring, maintaining, and displaying City-owned artwork in public spaces. This decision marked the beginning of a journey that has seen the Public Art Program grow significantly, becoming a key part of Ottawa's cultural landscape. The early days The program was designed to develop, display, and manage a collection with a strong focus on works by local artists. All artworks, acquired either through purchase, commission, or donation, were displayed throughout the community, promoting a greater appreciation for the visual arts in the city. These acquisition processes and community focus remains true for the program today. Growth and evolution Over the past forty years, the Public Art Program has expanded its reach and impact. Today, the program collects, commissions, and exhibits artworks by local, regional, national, and international professional artists, reflecting the program’s commitment to diversity and excellence in the arts. The program focuses on integrating art into daily life through the management of the City of Ottawa Art Collection, exhibitions at Karsh-Masson Gallery, City Hall Art Gallery, and Corridor 45|75, and implementation of public art commissions that add energy and interest to Ottawa’s main streets, public squares and municipal facilities.Art and culture for everyone Through various services and initiatives, the Public Art Program plays an important role in enriching the city's cultural scene. The program brings art to life in over 180 public spaces, from picturesque outdoor areas to hidden gems around the city. With a diverse array of artworks, it makes art accessible to everyone, supporting a variety of talented artists while fostering an inclusive and vibrant community. So, keep an eye out — you never know what masterpiece you will discover next! As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Public Art Program, we look forward to its continued growth and the many ways it will inspire and engage the community in the future. Be sure to check out this webpage to learn more about the program, upcoming exhibitions, calls and opportunities. Here's to another 40 years of creativity, innovation, and artistic excell