The Wonder of Public Art

From the earliest, most ancient civilizations to modern communities, public art has played an important role in storytelling, expressing shared values, and beautifying the spaces we share. As a public art tour guide and Certified Tourism Ambassador in Loudoun County, VA, I have the fun job of helping tour guests learn more about the role public art plays here, and inspiring them to engage with arts and culture in new ways.

 

 

Public art makes its way into towns and cities in different ways. In historic Leesburg, VA, where I live and work, there are three key organizations involved: 

 

• Our elected Town Council, which approves the pieces and their placement
• The appointed Commission on Public Art, which advises the council on artwork selection 
• Friends of Leesburg Public Art is a volunteer, nonprofit organization that raises money to support public art installation and maintenance 

The collaboration between these three entities ensures that public art is appropriate, reflective of our community values, and funded with a minimum of tax dollars.

 

Notice it! Murals, sculptures, and statues are placed very intentionally in public places. 

 

When you see art in a public area, take a moment to notice the details. The subject matter, size of the piece, materials, colors, and placement of the piece are important elements of the story it’s telling.

 

 

 

This large-scale, graphic mural in Leesburg uses color, scale, and dimension to represent a variety of distinguishing characteristics of Virginia’s largest incorporated town, all meant to convey “inclusivity” as a key value. The piece is meant to say, “All are welcome here!” 

 

Wonder and speculate. What might the piece be telling you? What kind of vibe is it giving? Are there unusual or minute details?

 

Take a look at this bronze statue of a beloved businessman and public servant, Stanley Caulkins, who was a jeweler and elected councilman in Leesburg. It was installed after his death in 2018. Sculpted by Jeff Hall, there are many details that tell us about Caulkins’ importance to the community.

 

 

Photo courtesy of Amy Bobchek

 

The jeweler’s loupe on his eyeglasses, diamond pattern on his necktie, and pocket watch all bespeak his longtime profession. His VFW cap reminds us of his service as an airman in WWII. The small pin on his lapel represents the pride he took in being a Rotarian. A tie clip with a small airplane is a clue to his role in building Leesburg’s first airport. And his open, relaxed, and welcoming posture reminds all of us who knew him of his friendly, generous nature. 

 

 

 

Stay curious! Snap a photo of the piece, along with any descriptive plaque or signage, and continue your research later. What can you learn about the artist and the subject?

 

Part of my research for my tours involved interviewing the artists who created each piece. I learned so many fascinating stories talking with them, and I also discovered connections between them – all of these anecdotes and backstories make our tours so much more delightful to our guests. You can find those stories, too! Some artists welcome guests to their studios for tours, and most have websites with photos of their work, statements about their process and motivation, and much, much more.

 

Of course, I’m partial to guided tours, but with some curiosity and initiative, you can learn so much on your own about public art in any community. It’s a wonderful way to discover new things about places both familiar and new. If you make your way to Leesburg, I’d love to give you a tour!