Art-public.com is a specialized online resource for information
and documentation dedicated exclusively to art in the public arena.
The original web site was launched in 1997 by Herve-Armand Bechy (Editor
in Chief) and Richard Combet Joly (Web Developer). Its purpose:
to create a vast European International online database on public
art.
To achieve this goal, art-public.com perfected a program to administrate
documentation with an online user interface: the SIGAP (System of
Information and Administration of Public Art). Information is stocked
in a database structured around three index fields – artist,
location and commissioning sponsors – which provide access
to representative articles including practical description of artwork
(artist, title, year, location…). This information is complemented
by a collection of images. Each work of art is illustrated with
up to six color photos; commentary is provided in several languages.
Through the SIGAP system, the database can be accessed via keywords.
This makes it a valuable administrative tool for documentation as
well as a practical resource for professionals, researchers and
educators in the visual arts. It also features an educational function
for computer-assisted preparation of conference materials.
The compilation of this European database on public art began with
the input and digitization of information and documentation collected
by Herve-Armand Bechy from the 1970’s to the 1990’s, through
his work with the Association for Public Art Promotion. This initial
collection already included approximately 5000 works of art and
2500 photos in 1997. Constant research and special reports on the
cities and regions of Europe have contributed to the continued growth
of the collection, which includes, as of 2004,
more than
8000 works of art and 5500 photos. The expansion of this
invaluable resource remains the number one priority of art-public.com.
Our aim is to achieve thorough and global coverage of all of Europe.
Selected documentation is accessible in our online resource library
through annual membership.
Learn
more
Online Resource for information and documentation dedicated to public art 
