We strive to increase our public art so people can enjoy it as an everyday experience. We value the impact of creativity on our city and recognise that arts and culture is intrinsically linked to our identity.

Public art helps to make Yarra a vibrant, creative and engaging place. We manage an existing collection and commission new works in public spaces, as well as support private commissions of publicly visible art. In 2015, we adopted a Public Art Policy [ PDF, 8.18 MB] which includes a scheme to embed public art into civic infrastructure developments.

A roving public art program is currently being curated to stimulate discussion about our public spaces. This includes:

• new temporary commissions on the former Queen Victoria plinth in Edinburgh Gardens
• changing exhibitions in the Carlton Library light boxes
• large-scale evening projections as part of the Roving Projection Program.

We also acknowledge the popularity of murals and street art within Yarra. We recognise their place within contemporary arts practice, and as a tool in graffiti management and place making. We've commissioned many murals and have helped facilitate many private commissions of murals.

Read our Public Art Policy and guidelines for Public Art in Private Developments.