Public Art and the Economics of the Imagination

Public art is an important aspect of urban and architectural development, but there are lots of economic issues that shape how it happens. This workshop first asks the question, how do we currently use public spaces for art? And then, how might we want to use public spaces for art?

You will participate in a collaborative workshop where we discuss the issues of public realm art. The day will start with an overview of some of the main issues in public art creation and the economics surrounding art making in public space. Then you will engage in discussion, creative writing, and even tabletop game mechanics reacting to possible scenarios and how we might to imagine possible future public art economies.

We ask that you bring an open mind, a sense of fun, and are happy to discuss ideas and share. This will be a collaborative participatory event and will use discussion, creative writing, and play as means to imagine different future economics of public realm art. You do not need to have experience or expertise in this field to attend and contribute.

The workshop will be co-facilitated by Toby Tobias Kidd and Ella Snell. Toby Tobias Kidd is an artist, writer, and musician, who specialises in the public sphere. He has exhibited and performed nationally and internationally, and is currently hosting a podcast on economics and public art with King’s College London. Ella Snell is a creative entrepreneur and consultant. She is the Founder and Director of Art School Plus which connects early-career artists with organisations, communities, and public realm projects. Alongside Art School Plus, Ella is also a Henry Moore Foundation trustee and ICA co-optee on their Development Committee. The ticket fees will be used to provide materials for the workshop and offer workshop leaders a preparation fee.