About the Program
Connecticut's Art in Public Spaces program was established by the General Assembly in 1978, the Art in Public Spaces program requires that not less than 1% of the cost of construction or renovation of publicly accessible state buildings be allocated for the commission or purchase of artwork for that building. Nearly 400 works have been commissioned since the program’s inception.  The works represent a wide variety of media, including sculpture, wall relief, environmental installation, painting, and photography; and range in scale from works on paper to monumental murals.

Art in Public Spaces components include: the Visual Arts Image Bank – with over 1,000 artists represented; the Connecticut Artists Collection – works of art by distinguished Connecticut artists that tour the state; Maintenance and Conservation – annual inspection and conservation of all artworks purchased and commissioned since 1978.

Purpose
The purpose of the Art in Public Spaces program is to provide the citizens of Connecticut with an improved public environment by investing in creative works of high quality for public buildings. The program adds visibility to the cultural heritage of the state and its people.

Connecticut was among the first states to enact legislation that included works of contemporary art with the construction or remodeling of state buildings. Twenty-seven states and over 300 municipalities legislatively allocate some portion of building costs for art acquisition. In Connecticut, public art programs also exist in New Haven, Stamford and New Britain.

The implementation of the Art in Public Spaces program is the responsibility of the Connecticut Office of the Arts in consultation with the Connecticut Department of Public Works.   

Artist Selection Process
Upcoming Public Art Projects
Public Art Tour 
Location of Public Arts Sites
Recent Installations