Public Art & Civic Design, Adapting to Change

The conference focused on the intersection between public art & civic design and how this work is being addressed in communities across the United States during this time of unprecedented change. 

Keynote

On Power and Participation: Public Art and Radical Visions Toward Justice, Repair, and Growth

Paul Farber

Monument Lab's co-founder Paul Farber (He/They) offers reports of urgency and purpose for the field of public art. Over the last decade, artists, activists, and cultural organizers have pushed the status quo in public art, especially to reckon with symbols and systems of injustice. In the midst of sweeping protests against anti-Black racism, police brutality, and the carceral state, monuments continue to serve as focal points for struggle and platforms to push for new democratic visions. The reenvisioning of public art must radically change the ways we create, maintain, and engage our public art and history. Farber shares stories from Monument Lab projects and partnerships, reflections on recent monument takedowns around the world, and a wishlist and action items for the next generation of monuments.