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January 8, 2010
(Red Deer, Alberta) – A recent review of The City’s Public Art Policy may mean changes to how The City selects public art, where public art goes and how much is spent on public art in Red Deer. Administration will bring forward these recommendations at a City Council meeting on Monday.
Right now, a minimum of 1.2 per cent of any capital construction cost that exceeds $250,000 is allocated towards public art. This money helps pay for art in our parks, recreation facilities, fire stations and public facilities across the city.
If City Council approves administration’s recommendations, it will mean a decrease from 1.2 per cent to 1 per cent when it comes to the amount of capital cost allocated for public art. “This amount is based on the North American average, but it wouldn’t impact projects already underway,” said Kristina Oberg, Culture Superintendent.
Other recommendations include actively pursuing developer contributions to public art, and implementation of an ad hoc committee to serve as a jury for the selection of all public art related to any projects within that year.
“Culture is an integral part of our community, and public art plays a vital role. Whether it’s incorporated into public buildings or open spaces, it adds to the character and personality of our community,” said Oberg. “We continue to see the value of incorporating public art into the design of buildings.”
If Council approves these recommendations, administration will move forward with development of a revised Public Art Policy.
For more information about public art in Red Deer visit www.reddeer.ca.
 Q&A Backgrounder
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For more information, please contact:
Kristina Oberg
Culture Superintendent
The City of Red Deer
403-309-2637
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