In 1989 the City of Oakland adopted a Public Art Ordinance (11086 C.M.S.) and an Oakland Redevelopment Agency (89-8 C.M.S.) resolution for a "Percent for Art Ordinance" plan which authorizes the allocation of 1.5% of municipal capital improvement project costs for commissioning of public artwork. These monies are set aside in the Public Art Program Fund.

Program Goals:

1) Enable artists to create artwork which enlivens, enriches and enhances the quality of Oakland's visual environment and public spaces.
2) Integrate the creative thinking of artists into the planning and development of capital improvement projects and;
3) Provide opportunities for artists which advance their careers and which broaden the role of the artist in the community.
4) Provide a means for citizens and visitors to express, enjoy and experience cultural diversity through the visual arts. 

In Oakland, Public Art can create a sense of identity for a city and individual neighborhood and a unified vision for the city. The best public art creates a unique place, a destination, a focal point for activity, a meeting place, and a landmark.  Public Art is a process where we invite artists to share their vision and creativity with the City and to surprise us with their own definition of what is possible.

Program Overview

Current Public Art Projects

Completed Public Art Projects-     through 2003 (PDF file)

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Public Art Advisory Committee Members, Agendas and Meetings 

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