How to Achieve the Best Public Art

Working to create the best public art possible

Yours truly (center) with architects Mitch Hirsch (L) and César Pelli (R) of Pelli Clarke Pelli, deep in a public art planning process.

Shortly after finishing my last post about the differences between gallery work and public art, I stumbled upon this scathing critique of the state of contemporary public art, with a particular focus on work created through “1% for Art” programs across the United States.

Gallery Work versus Public Art

Glass Installation by Paul Housberg for Michigan State University (Gallery Work versus Public Art)

A public art installation I created for Michigan State University, 2016 (Photo: Derrick Turner)

Lately I’ve been thinking about the many complexities of public art; how the creation of public art differs from private studio practice; and how many people don’t realize there’s any distinction between gallery work versus public art. Isn’t art just art, whether it’s exhibited in a gallery or the lobby of City Hall?

CODAawards Voting Through June 30

Liturgical Glass Art, Temple Adath Israel, by Paul Housberg - in the running for the 4th Annual CODAawards

Please vote for my Temple Adath Israel installation for the 4th Annual CODAawards! (photo: Tom Crane)

It’s that time of year! The 4th Annual CODAawards will celebrate design projects that demonstrate the most successful integration of commissioned art into an interior, architectural, or public space – and once again, I’m honored to have a project in the “Top 100,” which means it’s eligible for one of two People’s Choice Awards, among other honors.

New Public Art Glass Installation at Michigan State University

Public art glass installation by Paul Housberg at Michigan State University

Public art glass installation for MSU’s Bio Engineering Facility, 2016

I’m pleased to share a new public art glass installation that I created for Michigan State University’s remarkable new Bio Engineering Facility.

The Conceptual Rendering – What It Is and Is Not

Conceptual rendering for art glass installation by Paul Housberg at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital

Rendering for installation at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Boston

One of the most exciting and challenging moments in any architectural glass design process is creating a conceptual rendering for the client.

Art Glass Panels by David Schnuckel at Bullseye

Art glass panels by David Schnuckel

David Schnuckel’s Liabost Fàire (present tense), 2015 (Photo by Elizabeth Lamark, via David Schunckel)

If you find yourself in Mamaroneck, New York over the next few weeks, be sure to swing by Bullseye to check out Mend, a compelling mix of art glass panels and sculpture by David Schnuckel and Jennifer Halvorson, on view through February 13.

DNA Inspired Art Glass

DNA inspired art glass for ARIAD Pharmaceuticals

DNA inspired art glass for ARIAD Pharmaceuticals, 2015

Happy New Year! I hope you’re enjoying a peaceful transition into 2016.

In the fall, I shared a DNA inspired art glass installation that I created for ARIAD Pharmaceuticals. That work has gotten me thinking about the numerous DNA inspired projects I’ve created in recent years.

Lamberts Mouth-Blown Glass Installation for USC Alumni Center

Lamberts Mouth-Blown Glass Installation for University of South Carolina Alumni Center by Paul Housberg

Lamberts mouth-blown glass installation for USC Alumni Center, 2015

I’m happy to share another recently completed project – a Lamberts mouth-blown glass installation for the University of South Carolina (USC)’s Alumni Center, the first permanent Alumni Center in the school’s 200 year history.