PASW Regional Newsletter: Spring 2000
Public Art Forum Update
Focus at Public Art Forum
In recent months, the Arts Council of England has devolved a number of key clients and funds to the regions. ACE now seems intent on the development of its own strategic role nationally. To do this they are appearing to place emphasis on the provision of agencies such as Public Art Forum, NAA, Engage and VAGA. An informal national audit of this provision reveals substantial areas of absence. Whilst most Regional Arts Boards and all Arts Councils now have mechanisms in place to deal with the practical development of public art, there is no comprehensive national research or policy initiative in the field. The need for comprehensive research and policy development is demonstrable.
Needs for research and policy development have been expressed in three main areas. Examples of best practice in public art across the country, particularly within a local government framework, need to be compiled and properly distributed. Proof of the benefits of including art and artists in all aspects of environmental development needs to be sought out, with a special emphasis on the practical benefits that artists can bring. Finally, a national code of practice that achieves consensus on the standards and benefits that underwrite the field needs to be researched and established. Although the field of public art is burgeoning, these needs are not being met by regional organisations, either singly or through partnership. National initiatives in these areas developed in partnership with the regions will constitute a needed professionalisation of the field.
Public Art Forum, the National Association for Public Art, is now poised to undertake this portfolio of work. Public Art Forum's current activities provide foundations for national research initiatives and policy development. and this work is not being undertaken elsewhere. Public Art Forum's activities currently provide a national network of associated disciplines through membership and events, access to critical debate through the rapidly growing Public Art Journal and access to an overview of the field to be provided by the development of the National Resource for Public Art - a virtual information hub and a series of associated archives.
The benefits that inclusion of art and artists brings are palpable and measurable. Outlining and describing these benefits for people working in all the professional disciplines involved in our environment is crucial. Advocating and extending our public practice in the arts is an essential part of the continuing development of our land, towns and cities. For further information, or to become a member of Public Art Forum, call Lisa Harty on (01237) 470 440.
Simon Grennan, Director, Public Art Forum