This report explores how public art is researched and practiced in the Nordic countries and around the world. It was commissioned by the Public Art Agency Sweden and prepared by Södertörn University and Valand Academy to identify what we know, what we don’t, and where future studies should focus.
Public art here means creative work in public spaces, from lasting monuments to temporary projects. The report looks at how “public-ness” is defined, how art interacts with communities, and how it shapes places and policies.
By reviewing academic studies and professional practices, the report highlights key themes such as policy, architecture, urban development, and community participation. It also explains important terms like site-specific art, counter-monuments, and socially engaged practice.
Overall, the report shows that while there is a strong body of knowledge, important gaps remain. More research is needed to support public art as a dynamic force in Sweden and in the wider international context.
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