In a deputation to the committee, Andrea Dawes of County Arts outlined the advantages of public art to the community. It is not only about “beautification of our public space,” but also of economic benefit, not only for the artists who create public art, but for the county as a whole.

“Public art projects can create new jobs, training, and learning opportunities for artists, fabricators, architects, engineers, administrators, and other contributors. They spur innovation. Public art engages and embeds artists and the arts and creative approaches in efforts to address community challenges,” said Ms. Dawes.

According to the staff report, support for the arts has a multiplier effect, attracting investments beyond initial grants. Public art attracts visitors, and they to stay longer in locations that offer engagement with the arts. It is expected that investment in public art will help to extend such visits into the shoulder seasons, making the county a year-round attraction.

The report outlines the importance of having a policy in place before any permanent public artworks are installed, and recommends an eighteen-month moratorium on such installations to allow time to develop such a policy. Public consultation will be a part of this process. By August 2024, council will have a clear set of guidelines to adopt when considering public art.

In the meantime, the report offers procedures for temporary art installations.

The committee expressed enthusiastic support for having County Arts as an advisor in the execution of the plan when it is ultimately put into action. Most of the question period concerned how to strengthen and extend investment in public art, to ensure a variety of media, a range of contributors, and including visitors and residents in a year-round vision, in both rural and town locations.