The Economic Power of Public Art

Madison, WI – May 6, 2024 – CODAworx, the hub of the public art economy, has released comprehensive data estimating the size of this creative industry, along with revelations about the economic impact of the public art sector. This first annual groundbreaking study reveals that in 2023, the public art sector made a substantial economic contribution surpassing $4.4 billion.

The publication highlights the work of Michele Oka Doner, whose contributions to the public art sector are exemplified in her recent project, “The Third Day.” Oka Doner’s mosaic artwork, located at Florida International University in Miami, Florida, adorns the exterior facade of the new academic health center at the university.

Designed in collaboration with Boston-based mosaic fabricator Artaic, Oka Doner’s mosaic depicts her interpretation of the third day of creation, capturing the emergence of land and vegetation, while intricately weaving in microscopic views of Miami’s native plants. Situated where it can be seen by both pedestrians and drivers passing by a major intersection close to the campus, this installation needed to effectively convey its message to onlookers both nearby and at a distance—and it certainly succeeded. “The Third Day” stands out as a recognizable focal point on Florida International University’s campus, inspiring the student body while encouraging people to pay attention and perceive more deeply the environment they occupy.

According to CODAworx’s research: 

• The public art industry contributed more than $4.4 billion to the economy in 2023.
• Public artists earned approximately $1.7 billion in public commissions last year.
• The average public art commission fee was $380,000.
• Artists spend 70-90% of public art commissions on collaborators and sub-contractors such as fabricators, engineering firms, lighting, logistics and technology companies.

“The Economic Power of Public Art” documents the effects of public art in nine different impact areas, including Tourism, Urban Revitalization, and Cultural Identity. 

Copies of “The Economic Power of Public Art” are now shipping to government leaders, economic development agencies, tourism bureaus, public art commissioners, and other decision-makers who influence the funding of public art. Follow this link to preview the book.

About CODAworx: 

CODAworx is on a mission to demonstrate the power of public art to change the world. As the public art industry leader, we provide creative professionals a platform to showcase their work, connect, and find opportunities. Powered by a database showcasing thousands of projects with a collective budget of over $4 billion dollars, CODAworx leverages live events, awards programs, publications, data, and digital tools to empower public art in the experience economy.

About Artaic:

Artaic specializes in the design, fabrication, and assembly of award-winning mosaics, employing cutting-edge robotic technology and innovative design tools. Artaic’s proprietary Tylist™ software enables its in-house design team to create custom mosaics from source imagery of all mediums—whether drawings, photographs, logos, or ideas and concepts. With a wide range of materials, including vitreous glass, sintered glass, stone, and glazed porcelain, Artaic’s team ensures each creation is distinct and tailored to the client’s vision. At the heart of Artaic’s philosophy is the elevation of the tile mosaic to an art form. Whether introducing a distinctive artistic element to a project or translating an artist’s work into a new medium, Artaic fosters a reevaluation of tile as a powerful element of design and art. Artaic also offers a catalog of preconceived design collections—such as Flourish, Splash!, Lasting Rugs, and Verge—that can be customized to fit projects of any scale and made unique by an expansive material and color palette. The Boston-based company’s tailored approach and unique manufacturing process increase design flexibility and artistic expression while decreasing lead time and cost, making it a go-to resource for architects, interior designers, and artists across the globe.

Press contacts

Rose Arntsen

Public Relations and Partnerships

(608) 332-2422 rose@codaworx.com

UpSpring (Artaic) 

artaic@upspringpr.com