What kind of audience engagement does public art strive to foster?

Public art aims to create an environment that encourages active participation and connection among its viewers. This type of engagement invites the audience to not only observe but also interact with the artwork and its surroundings, fostering a sense of community and shared experience. By doing so, public art transforms the way individuals perceive and engage with their environment, making art a part of their everyday lives rather than something confined to galleries or museums.

Active participation can manifest in various forms, such as visitors physically interacting with the installation, participating in related events, or even altering their paths and behaviors because of the art. This connection can enrich the cultural fabric of a community by provoking thought, inspiring conversations, and promoting social interaction among diverse groups of people.

The other potential forms of engagement mentioned — limited and exclusive, passive viewing, or non-interactive experiences — stand in contrast to the intentions behind public art. Such art pieces are typically designed to reach a broad audience and to stimulate discussion, making the community an integral part of the artwork rather than mere observers.