City building | October 5, 2022
Public art is an important staple for any community. Public art is art of any form, size or medium (e.g. sculpture, mural, art installations) that is in a public space for all to enjoy and experience. Using art, design and creativity to foster inclusive communities, helps encourage placemaking – making public spaces the heart of every community.
RAW Design, Fossil Record, 2017. City of Mississauga Permanent Public Art Collection. Photo by Tori Lambermont.
Public art plays an important role within a community. It can include, but is not limited to, community art, mural art, installations, digital art, construction hoarding art, sculptures, and street art that help liven up public spaces. It can add to a neighbourhood’s identity, create a sense of belonging, encourage local tourism, and increase civic pride. It can also add a lot of value to the cultural, aesthetic and economic vitality of a community.
Polymetis, 3 Arches, 2022. City of Mississauga Permanent Public Art Collection. Photo by Tori Lambermont.
In many communities and cities worldwide, public art is now an integrated aspect of urban design. In Mississauga, public art is an integral component of public works, new developments, facilities and outdoor public spaces.
Ferruccio Sardella, Contemplating Child, 2014. City of Mississauga Permanent Public Art Collection. Photo by Light Monkey Photography.
A lot of the public art found in Mississauga draws on the city’s natural and living heritage, culture and environment. It is important that public art in a city is reflective of the community, so the City is working to make the public art collection more inclusive, more accessible, and more representative, including commissioning emerging, local artists for many projects.
Marc Fornes / THEVERYMANY, 2017, Pine Sanctuary, 2017. City of Mississauga Permanent Public Art Collection. Photo by Light Monkey Photography.
If you haven’t already, there’s a lot of public art to explore in Mississauga.
The City’s public art program contributes to the unique identity of Mississauga. As part of the Public Art Master Plan, this program helps create vibrant public spaces and streetscapes.
City of Mississauga Media Relations
media@mississauga.ca
905-615-3200, ext. 5232
TTY: 905-896-5151