Cessnock City’s Public Art Policy is now open for community input

Published on 28 October 2020

Commissioned mural by Silky Street Art at Bridges Hill Park 

Residents from the Cessnock Local Government Area (LGA) now have the opportunity to provide feedback on Council’s draft Public Art Policy.

An important part of Council’s Community Strategic Plan, the draft Policy supports the development and commissioning of art in public spaces, and provides a transparent and planned approach to managing art on Council land. 

Following a recent review, Council identified the need for the Policy to be updated to reflect changes to current plans and legislation, as well the needs of the Cessnock community. 

Cessnock City Mayor, Councillor Bob Pynsent said that public art not only improves the quality of the built environment but supports our sense of heritage and identity.

“We already have some fantastic public art in Cessnock and I look forward to an updated Policy facilitating more opportunities for art to enhance the connection between the community our urban landscape,’ he said.

Council’s Community and Cultural Engagement Manager, Natalie Drage said it was important that the Policy be open to community feedback.

“Active community participation in public art, and how it is managed in public space, can only strengthen future projects and the social, cultural, environmental and economic outcomes they may bring,” she said.

The draft Public Art Policy is now on exhibition and will be open for feedback until Monday 23 November 2020.

View the draft Policy and make a submission online here.