WHY PUBLIC ART?
Why we do it
Public art serves a far greater purpose than mere decoration; it plays a pivotal role in defining the cultural identity of a community. Art that champions local environments creates a sense of place and belonging, fosters civic pride, and encourages dialogue between different groups of people. By investing in public art, we are investing in the vibrancy and vitality of our communities.
Harnessing the power of art
Recognizing and harnessing the often-overlooked impact and power of art is one of our main goals at Arts4Wokingham. Since the earliest forms of art, people have celebrated and appreciated its ability to reveal significant aspects of our culture, attitudes, and way of life. We firmly believe that this is crucial for building stronger communities and promoting social welfare.
Involving local communities
To fully realise the advantages of a more vibrant artistic environment, it's important for us as a community to be inclusive and diverse. At Arts4Wokingham, we strive to promote public art by engaging with those who may feel intimidated or have limited access to galleries, museums, and performance venues. We aim to establish connections with schools, hospitals, offices, and a range of recreational areas, thereby encouraging the placement of art at the centre of our community.
Embracing art for well-being
The nourishment of the mind is just as crucial as that of the body. A well-balanced visual diet not only enhances physical health, but also contributes to mental well-being. Art has been widely acknowledged as a means of healing and is now being incorporated into both mainstream and innovative therapies. Arts4Wokingham fully embraces the concept of "positive body and soul" and recognizes the value of art in promoting overall wellness.
Enriching young minds
We aim to challenge the diminishing status and recognition given to arts in school curriculums. We believe that young minds shouldn’t be deprived of the benefits that arise from creative involvement, or even exposure to the arts in general. It’s widely acknowledged that art can shape people’s lives, but more importantly, it has the potential to transform them with creative enrichment.
