Public Art Installations in San Bernardino County
"We didn't want a place of sorrow, but of light." - Walter Hood
Curtain of Courage Memorial located at the San Bernardino County Government Center designed by Walter Hood
What is Public Art?
Public art reflects the community. Public art is the vision of the community. It is public history, and in many ways, can be a part of the evolving culture of the community that placed it there. It is a response to the ever-evolving times, a reflection upon our past, and a way to interact with the public at large.
Public art is a genre of art meant for public consumption and enjoyment, and at the same time, comes with an understanding that it is broadly accessible and that is has artistic value and significance.
Why does Public Art Matter?
Public art adds enormous value to the cultural, aesthetic, and economic vitality of a community. In many ways, public art contributes to a city or region's sense of identity, community pride, and enhances the quality of life for its residents. Many times, art and it's intrinsic effects, increase a regions economic, touristic, and cultural vitality.
Adding public art - promotes use and care of public spaces. - encourages business development. - increases property values. - grows cultural tourism. - connects artists with the local community. - develops pride in the renewed area. The San Bernardino County Museum, in an effort to celebrate and support the County's public art, has put together a map of the large-scale public art displays around the County. Enjoy!
A Guided Tour of Public Art in San Bernardino County
Please explore this map of public art in San Bernardino County. Click on the flags for more information.
Map of San Bernardino County Public Art Installations
Photo credit: Jorge Heredia - The community garden mural painting reads “Huerta,” which means “Garden” in English.
Note: Traditionally, graffiti has not been considered public art. However, recently artists have used spray paint to create visually and politically stimulating large-scale art, and actually deters vandalism in metropolitan areas. Because of this, we have included spray-painted art, which is classically overlooked, to this presentation to acknowledge pieces of art that are culturally relevant and undeniably artistic.
The Future of Public Art in San Bernardino County
Video credit: Transmission by Daniel Popper A video of the monumental structure Transmission, created by South African sculptor Daniel Popper, designed to evoke the spirituality of the desert which is both surreal and serene. This 32 foot tall structure is paired with mosaic pieces made of dichroic glass tile that reflect the light and color of the ever-evolving desert.
This carousel of images shows the Outdoor Desert Art Museum by Noah Purifoy which includes multiple installations of public art. This exhibit may be a clue into the future of both art and museums, with new technologies, new interpretations, and new ways to beautify unused areas.
Courtesy of Noah Purifoy Foundation ©2023
Image shows the geodesic dome that the San Bernardino County Museum is known for.
