Los Altos Public Art Master Plan

Los Altos, California

Why

For over twenty five years, the City of Los Altos has boasted a public art program and has in it’s collection over 35 pieces. Those pieces have either been purchased by the city or are part of the Sculpture on Loan program. In early 2017, Designing Local entered into contract with the City of Los Altos to develop a Public Art Master Plan to further define and enhance both the identity and sense of place for a City in the heart of Silicon Valley.

A strong interest by the Arts Commission and Council for a strategic public art plan drove the development of funding strategies, conceptual projects and programs, as well as a maintenance, a percent for art policy and a gifting policy.

How

Because of the strong technology-focused residents, a project website, survey and careful attention to community engagement activities have been pursued. The first community engagement activity was an open house with a public artist. The artist presented her method to creating site specific work and the community had an open discussion on what public art could mean for their city.

What

The panel was well attended and challenged the community to examine their legacy through the lens of art and culture. Through the discussion, the community excitement built and will be channeled into developing Los Altos specific ideas for high impact projects.

Client

City of Los Altos, California

Team

Designing Local (Lead)

Services

Public Art Planning

Community Engagement

People

Amanda Golden (Lead)

Josh Lapp