For Immediate
Release: April 28, 2004
Audio
Clip
Senator Penny Williams
Art in Public Places Act’ Goes to Governor
A bill to bring art to communities across
the state has won final legislative approval. Sen. Penny
Williams, D-Tulsa, is principal author of the “Art
in Public Places Act.” She said the measure will enrich
the state’s cultural development—an investment
that will enhance quality of life and boost economic development.
“This isn’t a new concept at all. Twenty-eight
states already have similar public art legislation. More
than 350 public art programs across the nation support projects
in airports, libraries, parks, government buildings and
neighborhoods. For years, the Federal government has required
a percentage of a public building’s cost to be set
aside for art—my own home-town of Tulsa requires one
percent,” Williams said. “This is an exciting
venture that will elevate Oklahoma’s image, both nationally
and internationally.”
Under Senate Bill 1347, one and one-half percent of the
cost of construction or renovation of state owned public
buildings would be allocated to incorporate artwork in,
on or near the project. It would apply to renovation or
construction projects costing at least $250,000 and the
maximum assessment could not exceed $500,000.
The art could include such works as paintings, sculpture,
mosaic, photography, fine crafts, and ornamental gateways.
The act would apply to all state agencies, departments,
boards, commissions and institutions as well as state colleges
and universities. If the measure becomes law, the act would
apply to all state agency capital projects approved after
July 1, 2004.
Public schools, water, sewer or public utility projects,
prisons or data processing purchases would be exempt. Artwork
for the Department of Transportation, including road, bridge
and turnpike projects, would be optional.
Rep. Dale
Wells, principal author in the House of Representatives
said The Oklahoma Historical Society, in cooperation with
the Oklahoma Arts Council, would administer the “Art
in Public Places Act.”
“This is going to be an excellent program for our
communities and our state. It will help towns across Oklahoma
to express their identity as well as promoting local artists.
I believe these works will become a source of tremendous
pride for our citizens,” Wells said.
The measure now goes to Gov. Brad
Henry for his approval.
For
more information contact:
Senate
Communications Office - (405) 521-5774
