Public art policy goes on show

A draft public arty policy is being put to the public by the City of Greater  Bendigo for feedback.

The document centres around the themes of sustainability, design excellence, culture, a creative economy and upskilling emerging artists.

There’s more than 100 works of public art on show in the City, including the Pennyweight Walk, a Marilyn Monroe sculpture, and the Djaara lights in the Bath Lane area.

The policy defines public art is work that is placed in an open area where people can access it and commonly consists of sculptures, murals, projections, and soundscapes.

It is sometimes created through collaboration with the community or emerging artists.

Ben Davanny, municipal manager of economic development said that this draft policy aligns with the current Council Plan and the Greater Bendigo Creative Strategy.

“Public art combined with tourism boosts local economic development and activates and beautifies all kinds of public spaces,” he said.

“Commissioned public art works also contribute to an overall sense of community wellbeing and pride.

“The region successfully presents an impressive range of permanent and temporary public art works which have either been commissioned by the City, businesses or donated to the City.

“A Draft Public Art Policy has been developed and is open for public comment on the City’s engagement platform Let’s Talk.

“The draft policy sets out clear direction in the planning, creation, and maintenance of public art. It identifies the opportunities for public art, methods to deliver public art and potential projects.”

Feedback is being accepted until Monday, 29 May at via the City’s Let’s Talk website.