Public Art

Public Art Program

The City Council adopted the Policy on Artwork and Monuments on Public Property on February 6, 2024, and it has been implemented to review several proposals for installations of artwork or monuments since the adoption. In addition, the City Council has funded the following art projects to beautify the community, promote economic development, and add to overall quality of life in the community. The funded projects include: 

• Mill Creek Art Mural - 2 Soule Street – Artist: Erica Sedler - Installed: May-June 2025

Public Arts Committee

The purpose of the Public Arts Committee (PAC) is to promote and develop artistic and cultural activities and initiatives that advance the quality of life and vibrancy of the City of South Portland. The PAC utilizes the Policy on Artwork and Monuments on Public Property as guidance to administer their responsibilities to encourage and foster the artistic, cultural, and creative strengths of South Portland. Recommendations on permanent and temporary public artworks and monuments are made by the Committee on and on-going basis to City Council for final approval.

The PAC consists of seven (7) members, all of whom are residents of the City. All members of the PAC are selected upon the basis of their interest in art and familiarity with the City of South Portland. Individuals with professional experience in art, architecture, or construction are strongly encouraged.

How to Be Involved

The Public Arts Committee meetings are held as a hybrid format (using Google Meet) on the 1^st Monday of each month at 5pm. Please refer to Board Docs for upcoming meeting details. For more information about the Committee please visit the South Portland Public Arts Committee webpage.

How to Submit a Public Artwork, Monument, or Temporary Artwork Proposal

To submit a proposal for a Public Artwork or Monument or a temporary artwork on city-owned property please refer to the Policy on Artwork and Monuments on Public Property for guidance on how to submit a proposal and submit a proposal to the City Manager’s Office.

Art in the Park

The City of South Portland's Art in the Park is an annual summer favorite for both artists and attendees dating back to 1980. Held on the second Saturday in August in beautiful Mill Creek Park, the show features original art and photography by up to 170 artists, a food court, and music in the afternoon. Admission is free to the public.