Public Art is an asset that enriches the lives of residents without visiting a museum or formal arts venue, by being staged in the public domain.
Public Art contributes to the identity of a city, stimulates creativity, inspires and educates its citizens, builds community participation, creates partnerships between corporations, government and citizens. It is a magnet for tourism and should create a sense of place. Public art can be thought provoking; start dialogs, and develop human interaction.
The Art in Public Places Initiative (APPI) is a subcommittee of the Leawood Arts Council. APPI is comprised of the APPI Chair appointed by the Mayor, the LAC Chair, one City Council liaison (non-voting), a City Cultural Arts Supervisor and up to five Leawood residents selected by the LAC.
The term “Public Art” may include, but not be limited to the visual and performing arts, creative production of music, drama, dance, creative writing, arts and crafts, film, photocopying or other suitable expression, (including that of an artist as a member of the design team for a building, park land or infrastructure), sculptures, painting, mural, manhole cover, paving pattern, lighting, seating, building façade, kiosk, gate, fountain, play equipment, engraving, carving, fresco, mobile, collage, mosaic, bas-relief, tapestry, photography, drawing, landscape item (including artistic placement of natural material), arches, or other structures of a permanent or temporary character intended for ornament or commemoration. “Public Art” can also be performances, exhibitions, and other activities promoting the enjoyment and appreciation of the arts for Leawood residents.