Public art in Boston has grown over time as a reflection of the diversity of the city’s past and current populations. The Public Art Walk represents some of our oldest and most traditional pieces featuring abolitionists, educators, statesmen and military heroes. The walk encourages both residents and visitors to treat the City’s art collection as an outdoor art museum with the aid of interpretive materials. There are four distinct products created through this project: a map and guide of the walk; a user-friendly website, which will eventually feature artwork across the City; an audio tour of the artworks featured on the map and guide; and educational materials for grades K-12, including curriculum frameworks.

This initiative to promote public artwork in the city aims to make our art more accessible for all. The comprehensive Art Walk guide, which includes information on artists, dates, and materials used to create the featured artworks, can be found at visitor centers in the city. To access an audio guide call 617.231.4053 or check the electronic copy at www.publicartboston.com. Copies of the Public Art Walk Map can also be found in the Mayor’s Office of Arts & Tourism Fall 2009 issue of (ähts) magazine.

The Boston Art Commission, established in 1890, believes that, in order to engender and support a thriving artistic consciousness within the city, community involvement should extend beyond everyday appreciation to meaningful engagement in the creation, evolving interpretation, and ongoing care of artworks throughout Boston’s neighborhoods. Site-specific artworks, both permanent and temporary, woven through the urban landscape identify Boston as a place with long history and a great capacity for innovation. We encourage you to be a part of this wonderful and artistic experience.