Backers of Ann Arbor's Percent for Art program must remain vocal in supporting it

By Tony Dearing
AnnArbor.com

Editorial Posted: Sun, Oct 30, 2011 : 6:07 a.m.
Sculpture by German artist Herbert Dreiseitl
Photo: Angela J. Cesere | AnnArbor.com

Art is inherently controversial.

Most people will not present themselves as experts in math or science or engineering, but everyone is an art critic. Art evokes strong opinion and reaction. So, it seems, does Ann Arbor’s Percent for Art program.

The program, which takes 1 percent of funds spent on certain public works projects and sets it aside for art, is facing a cacophony of criticism. The Ann Arbor City Council has entertained motions to scale back the program. In a recent poll on AnnArbor.com, more than 900 people responded and 56 percent said it should be done away with altogether.

Against such an onslaught, those who support the program must continue to be vocal in defending the value - both intangible and economic - of public art. Today, we join them by reaffirming our strong support of the Percent for Art concept. At the same time, we see valid concerns about the program, and hope they can be addressed in a way that leads to broader acceptance over time.

The case for public art was made when the program was approved in 2007. A well-run public art program enhances the visibility and reputation of a community, attracting visitors, new residents and economic development. World-class art helps make us a world-class destination.

None of that, of course, makes the program immune from criticism. Is it art? Is it “worth’’ the price that was paid for it? Given the nature of art, there will always be such questions. A harsh economy intensifies the objections of those who view art as a luxury. In Ann Arbor, the Percent for Art program also has become a foil for people whose real concern is some of the city’s other spending priorities - particularly public safety.

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