Public Art: Aesthetics in the Public Realm

 

For centuries people have reflected on the social function of art – as ornament, propaganda, moral instruction or a means of creating and constructing power. What survives reflects the span of cultural and societal freedoms in different eras. This conference explores the curation of public space within the modern democracy. Who is it for and how do we enjoy it?

 

Topics will include art as celebration and memorial, the reception of the avant-garde, the commodification of public art and social responses to both art and heritage.

 

Bringing together artists, visionaries and business leaders, this thought-provoking event will be a chance to learn from big names, understand and challenge conventions and enhance design and place-making decisions across the city and beyond.

 

HOLT has restored a vast range of public art over the decades, much of which shocked its contemporaries but has become much loved London heritage. Aiming to bring depth and context to our response to public art as well as foster inspired new commissions we’ll probe the nuance between heritage and art – to what degree is the public realm a single aesthetic in which old and new artistic endeavours merge. 

 

The morning will be on the theme of pre and post War public art, patronage of the arts, commemoration and curating public space. The afternoon will be on creating art, art criticism, and generating positive impact for society and the environment.