Why Public Art Matters
In an economic recession, it is unsurprising that art organizations are struggling. Funding tends to be filtered into job creation and other areas that seem to be directly linked with the poor state of the economy. Predictably, the Massachusetts Cultural Council, the main organ responsible for distributing funds for arts programs in Massachusetts, continues to suffer budget deficits; the Council’s budget is currently at 51% of its 2002 level.
But the positive benefits of arts programs for society, especially in a recession, are often undervalued. As Cynthia Cohen, executive director of the Slifka Program in International Coexistence at Brandeis University, pointed out at an event hosted by the Fiduciary Trust Company, art can often lead to healing in times of need. Having studied art in war torn societies, Cohen discussed how art can increase compassion between people in areas wracked by conflict.
Though it is not specifically “war-torn,” South Boston is certainly a place that has endured devastating conflicts. With a checkered past, riddled with hate and corruption, South Boston continues to undergo a healing process. One organization working to expedite this process is Medicine Wheel Productions (MWP). As its name implies, MWP advances public art to help South Boston heal. One project, for example, used broken beer bottles collected near South Boston High School to create a mosaic. The “No Man’s Land” project has refurbished a local park, using stones to tell stories. Medicine Wheel is also currently spreading its knowledge about the uses of public art for community healing to the Tonnes – the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, which continues to undergo a healing process after decades of violence.
A dialogue through art can be a powerful healing tool. Connections through any means – and particularly those made through creative expression – help to bridge people and promote understanding. Indeed, Medicine Wheel is more than arts and crafts; it is a vehicle for a communal voice, one that can promote positivity in areas with troubled pasts.
Watch video of the event here.
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Comments
This expanded scope of public art can embrace many diverse practices and artforms. These might be implemented as stand-alone, or as collaborative hybrids involving a multi-disciplinary approach.-Guy Riordan
A very insightful post, thank you matt for acknowledging the importance of public art. It is great that this healing tactic is finally being used and recognized, especially due to the (somewhat) recent UN art initiative in Uganda. This initiative, under the command of the first UN fine arts goodwill ambassador, American artist Ross Bleckner, is helping children use painting to overcome their trauma. Thus if it is helpful in one conflict area, it is wonderful that it is spreading domestically within the US as well.
A compelling piece, Matt! I too, believe public art has the power to really spruce up a community. Extremely impoverished areas are often the most run-down and decrepit, perhaps if we start by making these areas nicer individuals will be happier in their environment and less likely to commit crimes and vandalize!
Matt - why don't you start it of! You've got the idea, design a public art piece!
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