Knightdale Unveils Ambitious Public Art Plan to Enrich Community Spaces

At the dedication of the murals at Harper Park with the artist, Sarahlaine Calva. October 24, 2022

The Town of Knightdale is partnering with the United Arts Council to transform its public spaces through a comprehensive Public Art Plan. Assistant Parks and Recreation Director Andrew Wilkins presented the plan concepts and received feedback at the January Town Council work session. The initiative aims to activate parks and greenways, support economic development and tourism, and establish policies for art funding and management.

Council Member Ben McDonald expressed his excitement about the plan saying, “Our job as a town is to improve the lives of our citizens, and being able to experience beauty and art definitely improves all of our lives.”

Funding and Incentives

The plan introduces a dual approach to funding: public sources, including a “Percent for Art” ordinance that allocates 1% of hard construction costs from major municipal projects, and private development incentives encouraging voluntary contributions for public art. Projects exceeding $5 million in new construction or $2 million in renovations will be eligible, with private developers incentivized to integrate art into public gathering spaces.

Oversight and Selection

A new seven-member Public Art Advisory Board, comprised of arts professionals, enthusiasts, and community volunteers, will oversee the program. The board’s responsibilities include recommending site-planned initiatives, reviewing artists and artworks, developing selection criteria, and planning biennial temporary exhibits. Recommendations will require approval of the Town Council.

Criteria for Art and Sites

Artworks will be selected based on artistic excellence, diversity, durability, and public accessibility, among other factors. Site selection will prioritize visibility, safety, accessibility, and environmental considerations, ensuring that installations enhance both the landscape and community experience.

Diverse Art Forms Welcomed

The plan embraces a wide range of eligible artworks, from traditional sculptures and murals to technology-enhanced installations, functional art like artist-designed benches, and community-created projects. Works reflecting Knightdale’s agricultural heritage and railroad history are especially encouraged.

Clear Boundaries and Guidelines

Certain items are excluded from eligibility, such as mass-produced objects, standard architectural elements, and purely functional technology. The plan also addresses guidelines for donations, maintenance, artist selection processes, and inventory management, ensuring a sustainable and transparent approach to public art.