Public Art in Boston
We commission artists for both permanent and temporary public art projects in the City.
Public Art Update: There are several public art projects currently underway throughout the City, including murals at Madison Park Technical Vocational High School in Roxbury and 95 Magazine Street in Newmarket, several other projects as part of our Transformative Public Art Program, and 61 utility boxes being painted as part of our PaintBox program. If you encounter an artist working on a project, please maintain social distancing, take a look at a safe distance, and be respectful. If you have questions about the artwork, email arts@boston.gov.
We regularly release calls to artists for temporary and permanent public art on City property. The Boston Art Commission advocates for the creation of innovative and transformative art. We want to enrich the lives of Boston’s citizens through public art.
Have questions? Contact:
Arts and CultureHave questions about RFPs? Contact:
sarah.rodrigo@boston.govNews and announcements
News and announcements
Boston Art Commission
The Boston Art Commission is an independent board of nine commissioners appointed by the Mayor. They approve and commission innovative and transformative public artworks around the City.
Propose a Public Art Project
Public Art Under Review
Examining equity and representation in the City’s collection through public dialogue.
Our Public Art Projects
The Percent for Art Program
The Percent for Art Program is a critical outcome of the Boston Creates cultural plan, which called for:
"integrating arts and culture into all aspects of civic life, inspiring all Bostonians to value, practice, and reap the benefits of creativity in their individual lives and in their communities."
Through the program, we set aside one percent of the City’s annual capital borrowing budget for the commissioning of public art. The Percent for Art Program is administered by the:
- Arts and Culture, and
- Boston Art Commission.
- the Budget office
- Property Management, and
- other City Departments.
- See all the Mayor's Office of Arts and Culture current open calls and applications.
