30th Anniversary Celebration

The formation of the Public Art Commission was approved by the City Council on June 26, 1990. On March 26, 1991, the City Council established the Public Art Commission as a standing committee for the purpose of establishing public art philosophy and developing a public art plan for the City. The Commission was also tasked with monitoring the public art budget and recommending funding allocation for public art within City facilities, developing guidelines for selecting artwork for the City's permanent art collection, seeking private and governmental funding for public art, and developing education, promotion, projects for public arts programming. 

In 2021, the Public Art Commission celebrated its 30th Anniversary. The celebratory event included a program and awards ceremony recognizing those that had contributed to the flourishing of the arts in Ames. Speakers at the event included Ames Mayor John Haila, former PAC Chair Lynette Pohlman, former PAC Chair Kathy Svec, and Commission member and event organizer Olivia M.A. Madison. As part of the celebration, the Commission hosted a photography contest featuring local artists. The winners of the contest had their work accessioned into the City's permanent art collection.