Region of Waterloo Public Art FAQs
One or two Regional Councillors
Six community members representing the arts, education and the general public
A Cultural Services division representative
A Facilities Management division representative
Information on committee membership, agendas and minutes are available on the Committees page.
is responsive and embraces a variety of approaches, mediums, scales and voices;
articulates the Region’s evolving identity by telling our stories and creating interruptions that open our eyes to new possibilities;
actively promotes the role of art and artists in our community, by increasing the engagement, accessibility, and visibility of public art to all citizens
How is public art selected and funded?
The Public Art Advisory Committee appoints a jury to solicit proposals from the art community for a particular Regional site. Jury members, keeping in mind the unique characteristics of that site, judge submissions, choose the most appropriate artwork and recommend it to the advisory committee.
The advisory committee then recommends a payment from the Region's Public Art Reserve Fund for the art. The final decision is made by Regional Council. Some capital projects also have budgets for public art.
Maintenance of public art is financed by the facility where it is displayed. One-time costs for restoration or refurbishment are covered by the Public Art Reserve Fund.
Who and what is the Region's Public Art Advisory Committee?
The Region of Waterloo Public Art Program (and Public Art Policy) was approved in 2002 following discussions during the construction of several major Regional buildings. Regional Council agreed that public art enhances the positive perception of a community and raises its cultural profile.
The Region's Public Art Advisory Committee was established to administer the Region's Public Art Program.
The Public Art Advisory Committee comprises:
The Region of Waterloo is currently seeking input on a new Terms of Reference for the Public Art Advisory Committee. To learn more and provide feedback on the vision and direction, please take this brief survey by April 15, 2024.
What is included in Region of Waterloo’s Public Art Collection?
What public art is considered for purchase and display?
Public art considered for purchase and display under the current public art policy includes:
What is not currently included for purchase or display?
In adherence with the current public art policy, public art does not include plaques, or museum or archival collections that may be displayed in public places from time to time.