We’re pleased to share with you a series of quick read articles for use by artists and commissioners when thinking about public art projects.

Writing a clear and robust artist brief sets a clear roadmap for your project which can be referred to throughout the journey of the commission. The artist brief could include –

* The context/ background for the project

* What is the vision, aims, objectives

* Potential themes for the artwork – or areas to explore

* Expected outcomes and deliverables

* Roles and responsibilities

* Identified site/ constraints/ technical information

* Expected lifespan of work

* Environmental considerations

* Accessibility

* Process – timeframe, milestones

* Budget/ artist fee

* Artists insurances required

* Clear application process, selection process and criteria

* Note that it is not good practice to ask artists for concept designs at this stage as this would be unpaid work.

* A number of recruitment methods may be used to appoint an artist – Open call; Invited applications; Invited competition; Direct appointment.

For more detailed guidance and resources visit Wakefield’s Public art web pages https://www.wakefield.gov.uk/culture-and-heritage/public-art/

These resources were developed as part of UNBOUND, an artist training & mentoring development programme for artists seeking to develop their practice to deliver artworks in public spaces, which was delivered by BEAM and YVAN in 2024/25. It was part of Our Year, and was funded by Wakefield Council, Cultural Development Fund and West Yorkshire Combined Authority.