Public art program and process
The City of Toronto that came into being with amalgamation in January 1998 inherited a legacy of public art that dates from the middle of the 19th century. Each of the seven former municipalities made a commitment to public art policies, built art collections and appointed citizen advisory bodies to guide their management and growth. Public Art processes ensure that the method for commissioning, acquiring and managing public art works is open, equitable and fair, and secures adequate funding to create and maintain public art.
The public art processes for the City of Toronto Public Art Collection show a commitment to collect, conserve and interpret a high calibre program of artworks that:
- provide new opportunities for artistsare of the highest artistic qualityare relevant to their community and context
- enrich the experience of Toronto residents and visitors.
Cultural Services’ public art processes protect and maintain public art as a valuable part of the built environment and make space for public art available and a priority in the development of Toronto’s cityscape. The Public Art and Monuments Collection of the City of Toronto grows each year, predominantly through commissions and donations. Cultural Services works across City of Toronto departments and agencies to operate a public art program that includes a diverse range off opportunities for artists and projects. To find out more about how artwork is commissioned for the public art collection, click here. For more information about artwork donated to the City collection, click here.
Cultural Services also works with independent artists, curators and arts organizations to realize temporary art installations and events in Toronto’s public spaces. To find out about temporary artist projects and events, click here.