Public Art: Aesthetics in the Public Realm

This thought-provoking conference on public art will consider broad questions around the social functions of art, art as celebration and memorial, the reception of the avant-garde, commodification of public art and the curation of public space.

For centuries people have reflected on the social function of art – as ornament, propaganda, moral instruction or a means of creating and constructing power. What survives reflects the span of cultural and societal freedoms in different eras. This conference explores the curation of public space within the modern democracy. Who is it for and how do we enjoy it?

Bringing together artists, visionaries and business leaders, this thought-provoking event will be a chance to learn from big names, understand and challenge conventions and enhance design and place-making decisions across the city and beyond. Multi-award winning designer Thomas Heatherwick will speak about ‘Humanising our Cities’.

Many 20th century artworks shocked contemporaries but became much loved London heritage. Aiming to bring depth and context to our response to public art as well as foster new commissions, speakers will consider today’s contemporary art as tomorrow’s heritage. To what extent should the public realm encourage all artistic endeavours, old and new?

The event will take place in the spectacular Art Deco Florence Hall at RIBA. Contemporary artists Hew Locke, Anya Gallaccio and Assemble architects will join the Art Newspaper’s Louisa Buck on a panel session and Thomas Heatherwick will be signing copies of his book 'Humanise' at the end of the day.

Tickets include lunch, refreshments and a goody bag.

Please visit https://www.heritageoflondon.org/conference for tickets.

The event is sponsored by creative regeneration developer Are You?