Permanent Art Collection
The city of Scottsdale is home to more than 160 pieces of permanent public art. They include freestanding sculptures, functional objects, and art integrated into the city’s infrastructure.
Public Art
Defining art in the public realm through creative place-making, signature cultural events, exhibitions, and installations.
Live the Art. Love the Place.
Scottsdale is home to one of the most dynamic and diverse public art collections in the nation.
Since 1987, Scottsdale Public Art has installed striking permanent works, engaging temporary projects, and site-specific commissions that celebrate the city’s identity and landscape. From iconic sculptures and interactive installations to rotating exhibitions and large-scale experiences like Canal Convergence, the artworks reflect Scottsdale’s commitment to creativity, innovation, and placemaking.
Art in Private Development
In specific areas of the city, private developers are required to incorporate public art into their buildings and publicly accessible spaces. Learn more about this program, and explore the works here.
Temporary Public Art
Scottsdale Public Art is committed to creating temporary projects around the city. These opportunities allow new artists in the field of public art to gain experience, and the art enhances local neighborhoods!
Artist Opportunities
We hire a variety of artists for a range of opportunities. Check here often for calls to artists and other opportunities to work with us!
Tours and Apps
Through our augmented reality programming and audio tours, you can learn more about the public art around town! Click here to access our educational resources at your fingertips!
10-Year Public Art Plan
Be a part of shaping the future of Scottsdale. Scottsdale Public Art has launched the development of a 10-year Public Art Plan—and your voice matters. Through a multi-phase community engagement process, residents and stakeholders can help guide the future of public art across the city for the next decade.
Explore the Artworks
Discover the Scottsdale Public Art Collection, a vibrant showcase of creativity across the city. Featuring permanent installations and portable artworks, this diverse collection connects the community, sparks imagination, and transforms everyday spaces into inspiring experiences.
Civic Center Library Exhibitions
Scottsdale Public Art brings a rotating series of curated exhibitions to Civic Center Library, putting inspiring artwork right where the community gathers. Each exhibition is curated by Scottsdale Public Art, and is completely free and open to everyone. Stop by, take it in, and see what's on view.
Art Conservation
All art in public is at risk. Graffiti, pollution and water damage are just a few examples of elements that can have a negative impact on an artwork, regardless of material.
We work hard to maintain Scottsdale’s Public Art Collection, comprising more than 100 public artworks, in addition to over 800 portable works found in city-owned buildings. This work preserves the city’s cultural heritage for future generations.
The art in Scottsdale Public Art’s care must be maintained by trained professionals who understand the inherent characteristics of the materials.
If you see artwork that is in need of care, please contact:
Wendy Raisanen
Curator of Exhibitions
and Collections
480-874-4679
wendyr@scottsdalearts.org
Public Art FAQ's
Art in Private Development Information
I’m an artist interested in applying for a public art project. What should I do?
What platform do you use to accept public art applications and what materials/information is requested?
Do I need insurance to make public artwork commissioned by Scottsdale Public Art?
How do artists get paid for their work?