The Art of Designing a Great Park

Artists Can Bring a Unique Creative Vision to the Park Design Process

Great Parks are open air museums that display monumental works of public art. Every imaginable form of art, from the traditional statues of generals on horseback to modern, abstract forms of art such as Christo’s recent exhibit in New York’s Central Park, have found a place in the natural beauty of parks.

Paul Schimmel, Chief Curator of the Museum of Con-temporary Art in Los Angeles, recently spoke to a Great Park Symposium about the prominent role artists are playing in the design of great parks throughout the world.

“Throughout the world, artists are getting in on the ground floor, adding their creative vision to the design of public spaces.”

“Artists contribute in many ways. Some create spectacular monuments and attractions which draw visitors to the park. Others get in on the ground floor and bring their unique perspective to the overall design of the park. When that happens, a great park becomes more than a place to display works of art, it is a work of art.”