City of Hamilton's Public Art Master Plan (PAMP) serves as our roadmap for shaping Hamilton's unique character and transforming its public spaces through art. This long-term strategy aims to:

• Enhance public spaces;
• Celebrate the unique and diverse identity of our communities;
• Promote local culture and storytelling;
• Establish standards and guidelines to support and strengthen access to public art; and;
• Support local artists and arts communities.

How we can define public art
Publicly commissioned art is artwork created by artists, or in collaboration with artists, through a public process and existing in a publicly accessible City of Hamilton owned or managed location. It can exist in the form of murals, functional pieces, temporary or permanent installations, integrated into community design, or take other forms..

Where we've been
Hamilton's current PAMP was established in 2016 and has achieved a great deal in shaping the city's cultural landscape. Benefits of our current PAMP include:

• Added 11 new permanent public art pieces, guided by a new policy for artist selection;
• Built a transparent public art process involving over 10,000 community members;
• Supported local economy by supporting artists, engineers, fabricators, and consultants;
• Enhanced gathering spaces, promoting safety and community connection;
• Strengthened neighborhood identity and celebrated local stories; and;
• Improved streetscape with functional and artistic elements.

Where we're going
To help shape the future of public art, it's time to renew our Public Art Master Plan for 2026-2036. As Hamilton continues to grow and the landscape of public art evolves, the City is re-imagining its Public Art Master Plan. This renewal of focus will reflect the shifting social, cultural, and artistic worldviews that are significant in shaping our community through public art.

We invite residents to join the conversation in shaping the future directions for public art across our city.

NEW for round 2 of the PAMP survey: Submit your Stories & Ideas

By responding to one or both of the Ideas or stories tools you will be entered for a chance to win a $250 gift card to a Hamilton movie theatre of your choice or CF Limeridge Mall (2 chances to win!). Review the Official Contest Rules

• To submit your story and / or idea, you will be required to provide a screen name and valid email address.
• You are not required to use your legal name for your submission, however your email address is required and will be used to contact you should you be selected in one of the gift card draws.
• Once your story / idea is submitted, it will be published with only your selected screen name. Others will be able to like or comment on your story. Your email will not be published.