What I love about Portland, (among many other things) is...
public art! Portland has such an amazing array of public art - both in the out-of-doors and indoors - for all to enjoy. Our city also benefits from having an entire committee dedicated to public art. The committee catalogs existing pieces, creates maintenance schedules to keep them in top shape, and seeks new artists to create pieces for new projects around the city. Here in Downtown, we have an abundance - right at our fingertips! While researching for this article, I pondered questions like: is it public art if it is on private property, but is enjoyed by the public? Is a monument considered art? Luckily, I had a few experts fill me in on the nuances, and the answers were yes and yes! So, in this edition "What I love about Portland," I am happy to share with you my insight into public art in Downtown. Keep in mind, this is not an exhaustive list, but a first-glimpse into what is a tremendous public asset.
Committees and organizations involved in bringing you public art: First and foremost, the City of Portland boasts the
Public Art Committee. A full list of public art in the city can be found
here. Additionally,
TempoArt is a nonprofit group that assists with temporary art installations. Look for their upcoming projects at Congress Square Park and Lincoln Park!
Public art in public (outdoor) spaces: Perhaps you've walked by a few of our treasured monuments in Downtown: Henry Wadsworth Longfellow sitting in his chair in Longfellow Square, Our Lady of Victories in Monument Square, Maine Lobsterman in Lobsterman's Park, or perhaps even the Fireman Statue at the Central Fire Station. It might even be a fun challenge to use the
Portland Public Art website to see how many pieces of public art you have seen and - if you haven't seen them all - make it an adventure!
Public art in private spaces: You have probably walked by the huge "7" in front of the
Portland Museum of Art. The Robert Indiana Sculpture, one of ten in a series, is not only a beautiful piece of art, but it also just so happens to be the museum's address: 7 Congress Square! Another sculpture that is part of a series and is also on private property, but is enjoyed by many, is the
Urban Rattle sculpture by Charlie Hewitt. You'll have to look up, as this sculpture is set atop 20-foot poles! You can find this colorful and playful sculpture at 511 Congress Street, in front of the International Trade Center.
As you can see, there are many opportunities to enjoy art in Portland. I didn't even touch on our galleries, art education, or the many other organizations dedicated to the arts in Portland (You'll have to stay tuned for future newsletters!) With spring upon us, it is the perfect time to walk around Portland - solo, with a friend, or a big group - and discover all of our wonderful public art. Happy hunting!
