Edmond's Public Art

Friday, April 28, 2023

Edmond has more public art than any city our size in the United States. More than 300 works of art dot Edmond with color and beauty. Bronze sculptures, murals and interactive art pieces can be found at parks, along streets, on the University of Central Oklahoma campus and historic downtown.

How did Edmond become a public art destination? The Edmond Visual Arts Commission (EVAC) was established 20 years ago to provide a means for selecting, displaying, and maintaining the City of Edmond's public art collection. Funds come from a couple of sources:

1% from City Capital Improvement Projects (CIP): For example, the Public Safety Center, new Fire Stations, YMCA, Edmond Center Court, and the renovatedKickingBird Golf Course all feature specially selected public art.

Matching funds: For example, if a private individual or business wants to display a public art piece, they can bring the art idea and cost to EVAC. If approved, EVAC will match 50% of the cost up to $30,000 with city funds. The matching budget is approved byCity Council annually. In 2022, EVAC had $250,000 for matching funds.

Here are three ways to enjoy Edmond's public art:

Art in Public Places Tour:A monthly walking/driving tour costs $15 and showcases the stories behind public art pieces. The walking portion covers most of Downtown from 1st Street to Hurd and back; lunch is provided. Transportation during the driving portion is provided by the Edmond Parks and Recreation Department. Two-hour guided walking tours of Downtown, as well as private group tours, are available upon request. Reserve your spot by calling 405-216-7635.

Self-Guided Tours: Find art on foot or via bike on your own time.

  • Bicycle Art Tour - Take a scenic ride to enjoy more than 20 art pieces. 

  • Downtown Art Tour - Explore more than 30 art pieces on this walking tour. 

  • Mural Art Tour - Embark on a journey of color and imagination to see more than 10 murals. 

  • BoulevART Art Tour - Boulevard Street features more than 20 installations, with at least one piece on each block.

  • UCO Art Tour - Admire more than 15 sculptures on the University of Central Oklahoma campus. 

  • Historic Art Tour - Experience Edmond's history through more than 20 sculptures. 

Four of the art tours have printed brochures. Downtown, Bicycle, UCO and Historic Art brochures are available at the City of Edmond Planning Department, the City of Edmond Parks and Recreation Office and Visit Edmond Offices.

Interactive Art Map: Find a colorful map and list of art pieces with photosatwww.visitedmondok.com/art

Art in Edmond ranges from abstract to realistic, with many inviting interactions. Some are in plain sight, while others are tucked away and surprise residents and visitors. Take time to write on the "I'm Grateful" wall in chalk or add a lock to "Key to My Heart" near the Edmond Railyard. Learn more by calling Cinda Covel, Public Art Director, at 405-285-4275.

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