The Influence of Public Art on Urban Revitalization

Abstract

Purpose: The general objective of this study was to explore the influence of public art on urban revitalization. Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library. Findings: The findings reveal that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to the influence of public art on urban revitalization. Preliminary empirical review revealed that public art exerted a multifaceted influence on urban revitalization, transforming cityscapes aesthetically and culturally while stimulating economic activity. By creating landmarks reflecting community values and histories, public art fostered a sense of place and belonging among residents. It also catalyzed economic growth through cultural tourism and creative industry development. Moreover, public art promoted social equity by empowering communities and fostering inclusivity through dialogue and engagement. Overall, the study underscored public art's pivotal role in contemporary urban planning, advocating for continued investment and community involvement to sustain its benefits in revitalizing urban spaces. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Social Capital Theory, Place Attachment Theory and Creative Class Theory may be used to anchor future studies on public art on urban revitalization. Theoretical advancements included refining Social Capital Theory to explore how public art fosters community trust and cohesion. Practical recommendations emphasized participatory approaches in project planning and promoting diversity to reflect urban cultural richness. Policy suggestions focused on integrating public art into urban planning frameworks, allocating dedicated funding, and incorporating art into economic stimulus initiatives. These efforts aimed to enhance urban environments by leveraging public art for economic growth, community engagement, and cultural enrichment.