Role of Public Art in Community Development

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the role of public art in community development. Materials and Methods: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study indicated that public art can act as a catalyst for community engagement, bringing together diverse groups of people and encouraging collective participation in community activities. It often reflects the unique cultural heritage of a community, helping to strengthen local identity and pride. Additionally, public art installations can attract tourism and investment, boosting local economies. They also improve the aesthetic appeal of public spaces, making them more inviting and conducive to social interactions. In urban settings, public art contributes to placemaking, creating landmarks and gathering spots that become central to community life. Moreover, it has been observed that public art projects can inspire local creativity and innovation, providing opportunities for local artists and fostering a sense of ownership and involvement among residents. Overall, the presence of public art in a community is a powerful tool for promoting social, cultural, and economic development. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social capital theory, place attachment theory and cultural policy theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the role of public art in community development. From a practical standpoint, integrating public art into community development projects requires a multifaceted strategy that emphasizes collaboration among stakeholders. On the policy front, there is an urgent need for governments to prioritize public art as a vital component of urban planning and community development agendas.