West Oxfordshire District Council

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Public Art

West Oxfordshire District Council's aim in providing Public Art is to contribute to making unique places. In recent times we have been working to clarify in detail our approach to public art and we will be creating a Public Art strategy in due course. We are fortunate to have a picturesque natural landscape and rich history. In this context Public Art, whether fixed feature or creative activity, should respond to the place and its people.

The Council will always engage professional artists to undertake commissions and details of opportunities for artists will be displayed on our website.

The Council's Public Art Policy features within the Local Plan up to 2011 (as TLC7) and Design Guide. We are hopeful that Public Art can also make a contribution to future planning policy in the context of the Local Development Framework.

Examples of Public Art in West Oxfordshire

Recent examples of Public Art projects in West Oxfordshire include:

2006 - Feature wall and threshold stones in Charlbury by letter cutter and sculptor Alec Peever.
2003 - Glass and mosaic feature work at Carterton Leisure Centre by Sasha Ward.
2002 - Glass feature work at Chipping Norton Leisure Centre by Peter Berry.

Current projects

Marriotts Close - the developer of the major new retail centre in Witney is commissioning two works for the site.
Shilton Park, Carterton and Brize Norton - a significant scheme at this new housing development and associated country park.

Advice and guidance

The Council's Arts Development Officers can provide guidance for developers and assistance to artists wishing to work in this area. A number of documents are available to assist - including:

Art for Public Places - is a document published jointly by all local authorities in Oxfordshire
Guidance on writing a Public Art Statement - a tool for developers wanting to make their Public Art intentions clear prior to making a planning application
Commissioning chart - illustrating the stages needing to be undertaken to achieve a satisfactory commissioning process

Contact details

For further information on Public Art and/or to discuss your particular requirements in detail please contact Leisure and Tourism or call 01993 861554/861562.