Friends of Phoenix Public Art

The mission of Friends of Phoenix Public Art is to support the maintenance and restoration of the Public Art collection of the City of Phoenix, through fundraising, education and advocacy.

THE HISTORY

The Phoenix Public Art Program was established in 1986 by the Phoenix City Council to help create a more beautiful and vibrant
city. The program acquires the highest quailty
artwork, creates community landmarks and bolsters civic pride by involving the community in the design of its buildings , infrastructure
and spaces. In the past three decades, the program has created many award-winning projects and become a national leader in developing collaborations with artists and
other design professionals to help make a better Phoenix. The projects range from new parks, community centers and canal trails, to bridges, streetscapes, overpasses, transit centers, and other key infrastructure. The program also offers professional development opportunities to Arizona artists.

THE PHOENIX MUNICIPAL ART COLLECTION

The city of Phoenix Municipal Art Collection (also known as the Portable Works Collection) is one of our region's most unique, historic cultural assets. Begun in 1915-just three years after Arizona statehood-the collection has grown from a single painting to more than 1,000 artworks in a wide range of media. Today, the Portable Works Collection includes paintings and photographs by leading American artists from the first half of the 20th Century through the current day, a 63-piece collection of works by Native American artists, and extensive holdings of limited- edition prints by modern American artists. These works are exhibited in 25 publicly accessible city buildings. The Gallery @ City Hall, created in 2012, offers the public a place to enjoy the legacy of art that Phoenicians began building in 1915. The Gallery is staffed by volunteers and supported by private contributions.

MAINTENANCE OF PUBLIC ART

With more than 180 site-specific works of public art and 1,000 portable works, the Phoenix Public Art Program offers much to appreciate, celebrate and preserve. Caring for the public's art is essential to sustaining the beauty and humanity of our city's public fabric. By building partnerships, recruiting volunteers and raising awareness and funds, the Friends of Phoenix Public Art will advance the cause of community cultural stewardship and help extend the life of public art and culture for future residents to enjoy.

EDUCATION

Through talks, presentations, media and web events, exhibitions and other public outreach, Friends of Phoenix Public Art builds awareness and ownership of the art that enriches our community and lives.