Members Sought for Cambridge Public Art Commission

What is the role of the Cambridge Public Art Commission (PAC)?

The Cambridge Public Art Commission helps guide the implementation of the Public Art Ordinance and the Art Gifts and Donation Policy, and advises on the overall direction of the City of Cambridge’s Public Art Program. The Commission brings its collective expertise to bear on discussions regarding the various program areas of the public art program, such as acquisition and deaccession, project planning, maintenance, conservation, educational programming, and the exhibitions in Gallery 344. The Commission reviews every percent-for-art project from artists’ proposals to final design. PAC approval is required before a project can go into fabrication.

What are the responsibilities of the Public Art Commission?

• Advising on the artist selection process and community engagement process for major projects;
• Recommending qualified jurors to select artists (the Commission does not select artists);
• Reviewing public art proposals;
• Recommending potential sources for additional funding;
• Advising on outreach and education;
• Providing connection to the wider community and recommendations on community interests, resources, contacts, and neighborhood or city-wide issues;
• Contributing a broad perspective and interest in the city’s goals and values;
• Attending monthly meetings.

How long do members serve?

Public Art Commission members are volunteers appointed by the City Manager to work with Cambridge Arts Council staff in accomplishing the goals of the Cambridge Public Art Program. The Public Art Commission is composed of nine members who each serve a three-year term, renewable once.

When does the PAC meet and what is the time commitments for members?

The PAC meets on the second Tuesday of the month from 6-8 p.m., at the City Hall Annex, 344 Broadway, 2nd Floor, in the Cambridge Arts Council Conference Room, or when permitted, virtually on Zoom.

Members are encouraged to participate in Public Art activities and Gallery 344 events, such as public art openings, artist talks, community presentations, gallery receptions, public art tours, and other related happenings. Additionally, members have the opportunity to learn about the day-to-day work of the staff, Arts Council partners, and other departments, and to offer advice and viewpoints that reflect the Commission’s purpose and role of arts advocacy within city government.

Who can serve on the Public Art Commission? Are any special skills needed?

The PAC seeks to represent the socioeconomic, ethnic, and cultural diversity of the city, as well as various art and design experience (such as artists, architects, landscape architects, art educators, urban planners, art historians, conservators, curators, and art administrators).

The City of Cambridge is committed to advancing a culture of antiracism, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Commission members must have the ability to work and interact effectively with individuals and groups with a variety of identities, cultures, backgrounds, and ideologies. Women, minorities, veterans, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.

How can I apply to serve on the Public Art Commission?

Applications to serve on the Commission can be submitted using the City of Cambridge’s online application system at Cambridgema.gov/apply. A cover letter and resume or applicable experience may be submitted during the online application process. The application deadline is Monday, December 9, 2024. For more information about Public Art in Cambridge, visit Cambridgema.gov/publicart.