Port Hope wants your feedback on art in public spaces

Port Hope has long had a vibrant arts community as seen here at Epic! Gymnastics and Dance. The municipality is now calling on residents to help with a public art policy review relating to municipal spaces. /Sarah Hyatt photo

By editor/reporter Sarah Hyatt

The Municipality of Port Hope is calling on residents to help guide development when it comes to public art policy.

“Public art plays an important role in creating vibrant, welcoming and memorable communities,” said the municipality, while announcing a review of its public art policy is underway and staff are looking to gather residents’ feedback through a recently launched survey. “It can inspire conversation, celebration local culture and history, enhance public spaces and foster a sense of pride and belonging for residents and visitors.”

According to the municipal definition, public art refers to artistic works created by artists and acquired by the municipality with the intention of being installed, exhibited or staged in municipally-owned public spaces.

This can mean permanent or temporary pieces and all kinds of mediums and creations.

“The refreshed policy will establish a clear framework for how public art is considered, selected, displayed, managed and maintained in municipal spaces and facilities,” explained staff, while adding this will also help ensure that future public art initiatives “reflect community values and contribute positively to the character of Port Hope.”

Residents will have until Oct. 16 to weigh in on what role public art should play in the community, the types of art people want to see, how it should be selected and maintained, et cetera.

The survey will close on Oct. 16 and is accessible via engage.porthope.ca/public-art.