Cabarrus Arts Council Assists With Public Art in Concord

by Jim Greene, Arts Council President


Public art can appear in a variety of forms from murals to sculptures to landscaping. It may be a unique bench, a colorful sign or a fountain. No matter what the theme or style, public art educates and entertains us and exists for all to enjoy.

Asheville , Cary and Charlotte are just three cities that have used public art throughout the community to add to the character of their cities and make them unique. The City of Concord hopes to encourage and expand public art to add to the character and quality of life in our community.

Recently the City of Concord and the Cabarrus Arts Council entered into a partnership to develop a public art community assessment and plan for the City of Concord . The Cabarrus Arts Council received a $2,500 grant and the City of Concord matched this grant with $2,500. The funds are being used to hire a professional consultant to assist with this study.

The assessment began in November 2004, with a presentation and workshop for Concord City Council. Focus group meetings were held during January 2005, with various community and business leaders, artists, government officials and interested citizens. Those involved shared ideas for public art themes, styles, types and locations. The public art assessment and plan should be completed by May 2005.

After the assessment and plan are presented to Concord City Council, the arts council will work with the council to identify priority locations in Concord for public art and explore funding options. For public art to be successful in Concord , funding must come from both public and private sources.

This is a wonderful opportunity that businesses and citizens should support as Concord looks for public art projects and funding. If you would like more information on this assessment and plan or would like to inquire about a project or funding, please contact the Cabarrus Arts Council at 704/782-6610.