Saugeen Shores is coming up with a public art policy.
A town staff report explains, the policy’s purpose is to grow local art and culture. A policy statement says “Public Art will develop a sense of place, community pride and identity through the creation of new works while enhancing the attractiveness of the Town and promoting cultural tourism.”
Town staff say that would be achieved by making art a permanent part of the Town’s environment and a legacy for future generations.
The policy will also provide clarity on how municipally-owned land may be used for the display of art. The policy deals with public property, not private property.
Council supported the idea at its meeting Monday.
Mayor Luke Charbonneau says, “In 2025 we’re going to do some more work on that. Hopefully working with BIAs (business improvement areas) and other organizations to get some public art going. That’s the key thing. I think it’s really exciting. We have lots of great walls outside in our downtowns that could use murals. We have lots of great spaces where we could have sculptures and other types of art.”
He explains the policy, “Gives us a bit of a high-level guideline to approve pieces of art and so hopefully we’ll be in a position where we can approve some art to put on our streets.”
The policy statement adds, “The Town believes that diversity, inclusion, equity and accessibility are critical to building a community where all are welcomed, respected, and empowered. Public Art is an expression of the Town’s inclusivity.”