Belfast·SPG007 Masterplanning Approach for Major Development·Page 26·3.7.3
Public art as urban reference points and wayfinding
Public art serves as recognisable signals that help establish visual landmarks and spatial awareness within the city. Public art can reinforce local and cultural identity, add depth and richness to the public realm, and help determine the character of a place.
In addition to buildings, reference points within the city can also take the form of easily recognisable and localised signals that help to trigger spatial awareness in wayfinding and include interventions such as public art. Rooted historically in public monuments and commemorative memorials, public art has developed and responded to the changing socio-urban environment. They can have a role to play in establishing visual landmarks around the city in a way that adds depth and richness to the public realm while reinforcing local and cultural identity. Public art can also help determine the character of a place and where embraced see their status elevated as symbols of the city.
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