Public art around OKC

Artist Matt Goad's "OKConnected" terrazzo floor is part of the new Will Rogers World Airport terminal expansion.

Whether it’s a sculpture in a park, a colorful mural on the side of a building or Virtual Sky at the new Oklahoma City Convention Center, Oklahoma City’s public art helps tell the story of the city.

According to Americans for the Arts, the definition of public art is simple: it’s art in public spaces.  The art also serves a bigger purpose: studies have shown cities with a strong arts and culture component are more attractive to potential residents and for future economic development.

“Public artwork shows we care about our city,” said Randy Marks, public art project manager, Office of Art and Cultural Affairs.  “It enhances the experience of public life and seems to give citizens greater pride and ownership.”

Oklahoma City’s most recent public art projects are a reality thanks to the 1% for Art Ordinance. Adopted by the Oklahoma City Council in 2009, one percent of the construction cost of any building, facility, trail or park built by the city goes to fund public art. The process is facilitated by the City’s Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs and evaluated and recommended by the City’s Arts Commission, which is made up entirely of volunteers.

Recent public art pieces include Virga, located in the lobby of the Bennett Events Center at the State Fairgrounds. Designed by Venice, California-based artist Cliff Garten, the 72-foot sculpture is inspired by the outline of the Oklahoma River and the clouds in the Oklahoma sky.

The artists selected for the 1% for Arts funded pieces are nationally and internationally known, which inspires local artists too. “We want to see our local artists operating at this level so these selected artists are a true example as to what is possible,” said Marks.

The Call to Artists for the public art pieces provides specific guidelines and themes, many of which are unique to Oklahoma. The Oklahoma City Convention Center piece was to capture the grandeur of Oklahomans’ spirit and resources; the Bennett Center piece was suggested to have a science component.

An upcoming project is outdoor sculpture at the Belle Isle Library, which is currently undergoing a major renovation. The Call to Artist overview shares the history of the library’s location and its proximity to the former Belle Isle lake and amusement park.

With current and future pieces, Oklahoma City’s public art will continue to elevate the city for residents and visitors alike.

“Public art creates excitement and what we hope is these pieces will attract people who may just be passing through. We want them to stop and experience our art,” said Marks.