Deakin's Public Art Commission lead innovative research in the curation, delivery and analysis of public art projects. Our mission is to explore the evolving role of art in public spaces and its impact on communities. Through creative partnerships and cultural initiatives, we shape how art connects with the public, fosters engagement and influences urban environments both locally and internationally.
We investigate the transformative role of art in public spaces through two interconnected strands.
Specialising in curating and producing publicly funded and commissioned art initiatives, we engage and inspire communities. Our expertise ensures that each project enhances public spaces while deepening the connection between art and its audience.
We implement evaluation strategies to to assess the influence of arts initiatives on the public. By analysing social, cultural and economic outcomes, we contribute to a growing body of knowledge that informs practice and policy in the arts sector, producing leading-edge publications and consultancy work locally and internationally.
Join us in transforming communities through innovative public art initiatives. Collaborate with out experts to explore research opportunities, contribute to impactful projects and shape the future of art in public spaces.
If a student can learn to not only love art, but to see it as a hugely valuable mode of expression that enhances our understanding of the world, then I see that as a huge achievement.
Professor David Cross
Co-director of the Public Art Commission
The Public Art Commission assembles a diverse team of experts with extensive experience in public art, architecture, project management and stakeholder engagement.
David Cross is co-director of the Public Art Commission. A Melbourne-based artist and curator, he explores risk and participation through performance, installation and inflatable structures. He founded Litmus Research, which produced groundbreaking public art projects, and has published extensively on contemporary art.
Cameron Bishop is co-director of the Public Art Commission. An artist and lecturer in art and performance at Deakin, he has initiated significant public art projects like Treatment and VACANTGeelong. He research examines public space and the body's role in it, and he has collaborated on major consultancy projects, including the Metro Tunnel Creative Strategy.
At the Public Art Commission, we curate and produce innovative public artworks that explore the intersection of environment, community and public space.
Venetian Bind, an evolving public art project, unfolds over six months in Venice. Collaborating with Australian artists, it explores themes of public health, the commons and climate-responsive environments, engaging directly with the city's rich socio-cultural fabric.
Treatment III is the third in a public art series at Melbourne's Western Treatment Plant,, expanding to include the historic Main Outfall Sewer. Through contemporary art, the project explores connections between communities, public health and environmental infrastructure.
We collaborate with councils and boards to shape public art, participating in advisory panels, public are commissions and research boards to drive cultural impact. Key partners include the City of Melbourne, Creative New Zealand and Wyndham City Council.
Have questions or want to collaborate on public art projects? Contact our team to explore opportunities.
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