Public Art Strategic Plan

Letter from the Public Art Commission

Escondido is a community inspired by art that celebrates, educates, unifies, and remembers. The Public Art Commission strongly believes in the power of art to enliven public spaces as a representation of our diverse cultures and backgrounds by drawing us together through art as a shared experience. Art has the ability to transform public spaces, creating a communitywide identity that enhances our sense of place, builds community pride, and welcomes visitors.

The Public Art Strategic Plan represents a foundational shift and re-imagining of the role of the Public Art Commission as an architect and guardian of the City’s cultural resources. Through the implementation of this plan, Escondido has the opportunity to be a cultural hub in San Diego County by highlighting, attracting, and showcasing organizations, artists, and artwork that have profound impact and meaning regionally, nationally, and internationally; thereby becoming an economic driver and sustaining the local economy, revitalizing downtown and other neighborhoods throughout the City.

The Public Art Commission is grateful to everyone who participated in this endeavor. Contributions from commissioners, city staff, consultants, community organizations, and the public allowed us to create a well-represented and comprehensive public art strategy and Annual Work Plan now and into the future.

Public Art Commissioners 2025

Public Art Commissioners: Heidi Paul, Patricia Spann, Nathalie Martinez, Carol Rogers,  Terri Ryan, Jacqueline Kelleher and Leila Sackfield

The Public Art Strategic Plan was adopted by the City Council on September 18, 2024.

2024 Excellence in North County Economic Development Award

The City of Escondido’s Public Art Strategic Plan was awarded the 2024 Excellence in North County Economic Development award, also known as a Devvie, for its efforts in uniting stakeholders to enhance cultural expression while creating economic opportunities for local artists and businesses. The award was presented by the San Diego North Economic Development Council for the plan's vision and commitment to economic and cultural growth.

Annual Work Plan

Each year the Public Art Commission will establish a subcommittee to create an Annual Work Plan to fund new art, art education, maintenance and decommissioning. The plan will be proposed and then approved by the Public Art Commission and then brought to the City Council for approval.

Below is the Annual Work Plan timeline:

  • January: Public Art Commission appoints 2-3 members to the Annual Work Plan subcommittee
  • May: Annual Work Plan subcommittee via staff brings forth a proposed plan for Public Art Commission approval
  • July: Public Art Annual Work Plan goes to Council for review and adoption
  • August: Solicitation process begins
  • October: Public input for final selections
  • November: Public Art Commission approval of final artwork and award of funds
  • December: Contracts signed
  • January: Work begins and estimated timeline for completion is 1 year or less

Approved Work Plans