Public art can be defined, most simply, as art that is in the public realm. It might be a landscape installation made to delight passers-by; it might be aural or visual, functional, as well as inspirational. Public art can be permanent or temporary; it can be woven seamlessly into the city’s fabric or stand out as a unique and arresting detail or event. The City of Toronto owns more than 200 works of public art and its streets and courtyards host hundreds more pieces. These works have many functions and forms:

• to commemorate specific events and historical figures to give character to certain places in the city
• to make living, working and visiting Toronto an interesting, thought-provoking and creative experience.

Cultural Services is committed to encouraging the development of public art opportunities and maintaining its outdoor collection.

For more information about the Public Art Program, please see the Quick Links at the right.