Golden Paintbrush Awards
The Golden Paintbrush Award recognizes adults, children and organizations who have encouraged creativity in Ann Arbor's publicly visible spaces. Nominations closed on April 30, 2021.
Mission
The
Ann Arbor Public Art Commission is an advisory body to City Council with the
goal of creating public art in Ann Arbor that improves the aesthetic quality of
public spaces and structures and provides cultural and recreational
opportunities that contribute to local heritage, stimulates economic and
promotes the general welfare of the community.
Virtual art tour
Now you can take a virtual tour of public art in Ann Arbor. Learn more about each piece and the artist behind it. The tool also works on your smartphone, essentially serving as a digital guide. 
City gallery art
In collaboration with the City of Ann Arbor, the
Ann Arbor Art Center curates rotating exhibitions in the City Council Chambers. Each exhibition highlights the talent and creativity of artists who live and work in Ann Arbor and throughout Washtenaw County.
Get involved
You can get involved by making a
donation, organizing a neighborhood public art project, volunteer to serve on an AAPAC sub-committee or
offer suggestions for public art themes and locations. If you'd like to suggest location, or concept, ideas for public art that the city could commission, please send an email to
[email protected].org or write to us at:
Public Art Commission
We are not a source of funding and any proposed project should address a plan for funding. However, we can provide visibility and feedback for proposals submitted and, if municipal space is part of your project, city ordinance requires you to seek our recommendations first. AAPAC meetings are open to the public; agendas and minutes for the Public Art Commission are stored on the
Legistar Calendar.
Reference materials
2019 Annual Report
- Appendix A - CIP Enhancements
- Appendix B - Art Selection Process
Public Art Ordinance
Public Art Commissioners:
Travis Radina, City Council Liaison (non-voting)
Allison Buck, Chair, Marketing Director
Sarah Fuller, Vice-Chair, Artist
Debra Mexicotte, Vice Chair, ArtsEngine Managing Director
David Esau, Architect
Sophie Grillet, Fine Artist
John Kotarski, Educator
Peggy Wier-Leonard, Elementary Art Teacher
Wasentha Young, Artist
Citizens interested in supporting and promoting the City of Ann Arbor through participation on a city board or commission, please visit the
Boards and Commissions page.
