Let art flourish in rail stations

POSTED: 01:30 a.m. HST, Dec 03, 2012

~~<p>Following the example of various cities, Hawaii in 1967 became the first state to establish what has become known, multiplied and revered across the country as an Art in Public Places Program. Honolulu as a city has no specific program but the rail project is set to buy works of art for 21 train stations, a worthwhile decision that should enhance travel by the island's commuters and visitors.</p>
<p>Hawaii state law now provides for works of art to be purchased for 1 percent of all construction costs of any state facility, selected by the state Foundation on Culture and the Arts. The result has been statues, paintings and fine-art prints that adorn grounds and buildings. The artworks to be selected for rail stations could range from free-standing sculpture and wall pieces to functional elements like lighting, seating or railings, according to federal guidelines.</p>
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Following the example of various cities, Hawaii in 1967 became the first state to establish what has become known, multiplied and revered across the country as an Art in Public Places Program. Honolulu as a city has no specific program but the rail project is set to buy works of art for 21 train stations, a worthwhile decision that should enhance travel by the island's commuters and visitors.

Hawaii state law now provides for works of art to be purchased for 1 percent of all construction costs of any state facility, selected by the state Foundation on Culture and the Arts. The result has been statues, paintings and fine-art prints that adorn grounds and buildings. The artworks to be selected for rail stations could range from free-standing sculpture and wall pieces to functional elements like lighting, seating or railings, according to federal guidelines. Login for more...