Public Art & Design Program
Iowa PUBLIC ART Artists' Registry
IPAAR is a non-juried registry of Iowa artists who are seeking opportunities to create or exhibit their public art. For each artist, you will find:
- an artist biography and statement about the artist’s work
- information and images of up to 12 public art projects the artist has planned or completed
IPAAR is a ready resource that can be used by organizations, committees, designers and communities to help them identify Iowa artists for their projects and programs and for Iowa Arts Council coordinated Art in State Buildings projects.
What is Public Art?
“Public art” is defined as a permanent or temporary work of art designed by an artist that is located indoors or outdoors. Public art can take many forms, including aesthetic objects such as sculptures and murals, kinetic pieces that move and react to the environment, and functional work such as doors, gates, fencing, lighting fixtures, and furniture. Public art can be integrated into parks, community streetscape and entryway projects, and transportation projects. Public art can also be “site-integrated” artwork that responds to elements or characteristics found in a particular location and integrated into the construction of the project.
Public art can also involve a "process" that is multifaceted and involves artists working with several different constituencies or participating entities (owner/client, architect, landscape architect, stakeholders, and most of all--"the public").
Finding Iowa Artists for Your Public Art Project
First visit the Iowa Artist Directory, our online, searchable database of artists in all disciplines across Iowa.
Second, scroll down to “Search Here” and select "Public Art Artist Registry" in the list of Directory/Publications. Hit the "search" button and a new page will appear that includes all registered public artists.
Third, click on the “artist’s name” and their page will appear. Their Public Art PowerPoint is at the bottom of the page.
Q & A – Planners & Sponsors
Who is included in IPAAR?
IPAAR represents Iowa artists who live in the state and former residents of Iowa if they are represented by an Iowa agent or commercial art gallery.
Is IPAAR on your website?
Refer below to Links & Resources for a list of registered IPAAR artists. It includes up to three images of their projects, the type of public art they would like to create or exhibit, and their website. An abbreviated version of their PowerPoint presentations will soon be added.
How do I use IPAAR to select an artist?
It’s easier than you think! First review the lists of registered IPAAR artists. Refer below to Links & Resources.
If you would like to review the complete version, refer below to Who to Contact at the IAC and request to have the full IPAAR CD and notebook mailed to you for a two week loan. The full version contains examples of up to 12 of their public art projects, an artist statement and bio, contact information, and summary information about each project.
Will the Iowa Arts Council recommend an artist for our public art project or program?
No. It is your own responsibility to identify and select an artist.
Whom should I contact first?
Each artist specifies who you are to contact first. The artist or her/his contact person is responsible for maintaining current and accurate information on IPAAR.
Where can I obtain more information about artists?
In many instances, artists have a website. The artist’s contact person can also provide you additional information about him/her.
Can the IAC help us with our public art project or program?
IAC staff can meet with you to help you get started, but it is your job to plan and implement your project or program. Refer below to Who To Contact at the IAC.
- There are several resources available through Americans for the Arts Public Art Network to help you plan or manage your project or program. Refer below to Links & Resources.
- The City of San Diego Public Art Program maintains a list of public art consultants on their website. Refer below to Links & Resources.
Q & A – Artists
I’m an Iowa artist who is interested in being in this resource.
There is no deadline to register in IPAAR. However, artists must register by a specific date in order to be considered for a specific project that will use IPAAR to select artists. Download the registration guidelines and forms at the bottom of this page.
I used to live in Iowa but now live in another state. Can I register in IPAAR?
You can register in IPAAR if you are represented by an Iowa agent or commercial art gallery. You can register yourself (you must list your Iowa agent as your Agent) or you can ask your Iowa agent/dealer to register you.
I’m an Iowa agent. Can I register an Iowa artist I represent?
Yes, as long as the Iowa artist meets the eligibility requirements and as long as the artist agrees. An artist can be represented only once as an individual artist in IPAAR.
Who to Contact at the IAC
Bruce Williams
Public Art & Design Program Coordinator
Iowa Arts Council
600 E Locust St
Des Moines, IA50319-0290
515.281.4006
bruce.williams@iowa.gov
Links & Resources
IPAAR PowerPoint
IPAAR Artist Guidelines
IPAAR Registration Forms
Americans for the Arts Public Art Network
List of Public Art Consultants maintained City of San Diego Public Art Program