All art in public is at risk. Graffiti, pollution, bird droppings, and water damage are just a few examples of elements that can have a negative impact on an artwork, regardless of material.

We work hard to maintain Scottsdale’s Public Art Collection, comprising more than 100 public artworks, in addition to over 800 portable works found in city-owned buildings. This work preserves the city’s cultural heritage for future generations. Each year, Scottsdale Public Art identifies artworks requiring attention, developing a priority list of projects based upon the condition of the artwork and other factors.

The art in Scottsdale Public Art’s care must be maintained by trained professionals who understand the inherent characteristics of the materials.

YOU CAN HELP

If you see artwork that is in need of care, please contact:

Wendy Raisanen
Curator of Exhibitions 
and Collections
480-874-4679
[email protected]

Earth Wall – Living Wall Restoration Project

After 20 years, the brilliant paint colors of Earth Wall – Living Wall by artist Joan Baron faded drastically. In 2001, the glass blocks were removed, bricked in, and painted orange. The wall was also painted yellow, changing the original plans and vision for the project. The fading of the colors, divergent repainting, and repairs all changed the original vision for this award-winning public art project.

The city of Scottsdale and Scottsdale Public Art are committed to maintaining pieces in the public art collection as close to their original visions as possible. As a result, the weathered bronze- and gold-colored jersey barriers, the white sculptural mandala, and the blue walls and safety fencing over the bridge were painted in August 2019 and November 2020.

Improved, high-strength, lavender-hued glass blocks were restored in the spaces on the block wall, which was painted a warm orange/red. The colors of the project are inspired by the desert’s spring cactus flowers and blue sky colors.