PUBLIC ART
Frederick has a long history of public art, and one of the Arts Council’s most recent efforts has been to develop a Public Art Master Plan which lays the groundwork to add to and sustain the County’s public art collection.
Please visit our Slideroom for the most recent artist opportunities!
In Spring 2024, artist Bob Cohen completed a mural at 1 N Carroll St, Thurmont, MD, through a commission by the Frederick Arts Council with the Ausherman Family Foundation.
Born in Alexandria, Virginia, Bob Cohen is now devoting full-time to his artwork, living and working in Rockville, Maryland. He favors acrylic paint and utilizes the computer to produce digital prints.
Cohen’s design for the exterior mural in Thurmont, Maryland is inspired by the town’s location near the mountains and is a direct outgrowth of his Landscape Progression series. A mural featuring landscape can refer to the rural history of Thurmont, and symbolize a contemporary spirit and respect for nature of its citizens.
Going forward, we look to manage the County’s public art program day-to-day, help Frederick adhere to nationally recognized best practices when it comes to developing new projects, and nurture sustainable funding streams to ensure that Frederick’s public art can be enjoyed by generations to come.
We recognize that cities and locations often become deeply identified with their works of public art, and we are excited by the potential of public artworks to spark conversations, process community identity, and serve the community as a whole.
Have an idea for Public Art?
Download our Public Art Nomination Form here.
Watch the Artist Talk from American social practice artist Matthew Mazzota while visiting the FAC Art Center.
Public Art Initiatives
Vision for the Public Art Initiative
Our vision is a Frederick where public art connects residents and visitors, expresses an authentic and unique sense of place, drives economic prosperity through creativity, and advances a culturally inclusive and empowered future.
Download the Public Art Master Plan here.
Mural at 201 South Market Street by Gera Lozano
Lester Bowie Mural at 69 S Market St by Rafael Blanco
Barn Art Initiative