Dive right in!
The Public Art Master Plan is the City’s guiding document for all things public art related. It was completed in September 2023 and is available to view on the City’s website.
What it Is
Ever stopped to enjoy one of Salisbury’s amazing murals? A sculpture in City Park or the Salisbury University campus? A uniquely painted utility box downtown?
Salisbury embarked on a plan that will inspire more public art throughout the city. The plan explains Salisbury’s vision for how public art can impact the city, identify opportunities for projects the city can undertake on its own, and outline approaches to collaborating on projects with the city’s creative and business communities.
The Masterplan process
Public engagement began with an “open mic” public meeting on March 18, 2022, where people were invited to share their ideas and experiences with public art. The consultant researched and reviewed current city plans and development projects, and put together background on how other cities like Salisbury are promoting public art. The consultant developed a survey to gather ideas from the general public, and interviewed key stakeholders. The consulting team returned to Salisbury that June. There was another public conversation June 15, a table at 3rd Friday on June 17, and several focus group meetings. The public engagement culminated with a presentation to City Council on Sept. 5, 2023 and their creation of the City’s Public Art Committee (PAC).
The Benefits of Public Art
Public art is already a familiar sight in Salisbury. There are murals and painted utility boxes throughout downtown, sculptures on the Salisbury University campus, and mosaics and sculptures in City Park.
Across the country, cities have found that public art can strengthen communities by giving them an opportunity to express who they are (their histories, hopes and dreams), catalyze a city’s creative energy, and support the vibrancy of downtowns.
What Does a Public Art Plan Include?
Salisbury’s public art plan will answer three basic questions.
• Big Picture: Why is public art important to Salisbury? What impact can it have on the city?
• Big Moves: What are the best opportunities for new projects that will fulfill the city’s vision?
• Toolkit: What tools will the city need – funding, project management, guidelines, partnerships – to make these projects happen?
Consultant Information
The plan was led by Todd W. Bressi, a public art planning consultant based in Philadelphia. Todd develops public art strategies, programs and projects for public agencies, civic/community groups and cultural organizations throughout the U.S. and Canada. He works regularly with Mural Art Philadelphia and Phildelphia250 as a public art planning consultant. Bressi grew up in Maryland and visits Delmarva frequently to visit family there. http://www.artfulplaces.com/