Public Art Future Lab

About the Program

Category: Civic Education and Public Information (Best in Category)

Year: 2023

The Public Art Futures Lab seeks to provide a space for creatives to exhibit, experiment, educate, and experience the role of technology and its intersection with public art. Our mission is to make the creation and experience of tech-enabled art accessible to our community for both creators and consumers. This is achieved through an artist-in-residence program, educational events, exhibits, and experiences. Currently, staff are working with our Library network, pediatric hospitals, and senior centers to broaden access to tech-enabled art experiences. Launched in April 2021, the Lab attracted over $104,000 in external support and reached 1,465 people in its first year through 21 public and private partnerships and 68 events. More $80,000 was re-invested into the arts community through the artist-in-residence program, educational events, experiences, and equipment purchases. While there are existing private innovation labs offered by universities, technology companies, and museums, the Public Art Futures Lab is the first Government-led program of its kind in the United States.