Public Art in Practice: Collaborative Creation & Community Engagement - Spring 2026

For those of us typically accustomed to working individually behind the camera or in the darkroom, the idea of proposing or collaborating on public art projects can initially seem intimidating. However, this shouldn’t be the case. Explore the world of public art in this hands-on, collaborative laboratory where students will demystify the process of creating, funding, and implementing impactful public art projects. This course is designed as a dynamic, community-based learning environment where students engage in active dialogue, exploration, and creative development, culminating in the creation of a tangible public art work—a photo-based mural—to be installed on the side of the PCNW building.

Throughout the course, students will learn the ins and outs of finding and securing opportunities for public art projects, and navigating the practical and conceptual aspects of public art creation. We will also discuss the importance of community engagement and how involving various stakeholders can provide new creative opportunities. Expect to explore real-world case studies and gain firsthand insight from experienced artists and industry professionals.

Key Components of the Course Include:

• Lectures and Discussions - In-depth lectures from the instructor will cover essential topics like grant writing, case studies, public art opportunities, and community engagement strategies.
• Visiting Experts & Consultants - Engage with guest artists, curators, and public art specialists who will share their expertise through classroom talks or site visits, offering practical insights and guidance.
• Field Trips - 1-2 field trips outside of class hours will immerse students in the public art landscape, giving them a chance to see how works are integrated into communities and inspire real-world connections.
• Collaborative Project - Students will work together in a hands-on, creative lab environment to map out, develop, and execute a public art project. This collaborative process will involve brainstorming, planning, and designing a mural that reflects the collective vision of the group. The final work will be on the side of the PCNW building, and culminate with a community celebration during PCNW’s Chase the Light event!

By the end of the quarter, students will have gained practical experience in the full arc of public art creation—from concept to execution—while also learning about the logistics and impact of public art in real-world settings. Join us in this exciting course where your ideas and creativity will take shape in the real world.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

• Introduce students to the public art process and share real world examples
• Better understand how photographers can propose and apply for public art opportunities
• Understand the importance of engaging community stakeholders
• Opportunity to collaborate as part of an artist team

COURSE OUTCOMES
Students will complete the course with:

• Familiarity and experience with the full arc of public art creation
• Become familiar with public art funders, organizers, and consultants
• Collaborative creation and installation of a public art work along PCNW’s exterior
• Confidence to apply for future public art projects

IMPORTANT NOTES FOR STUDENTS

• Weekly attendance is vital to student success in PCNW courses. We require that students attend the first meeting in order to retain their spot in the class. A waiver may be granted if permission is given by, and subsequent arrangements made with, both the PCNW Registrar and Faculty. Please see our Education Policies for details about attendance policies and academic expectations.
• PCNW adheres to a strict payment, cancellation and refund policy. Please review our Payment & Refund Policies prior to registration.
• Intermediate and advanced courses have prerequisites which students must satisfy prior to enrollment. Prerequisites may be waived based on experience or prior courses taken through other institutions. To verify that you meet the prerequisite(s) for a course, contact Jennifer Brendicke, Registrar at jbrendicke@pcnw.org.
• Students are required to provide their own camera, unless otherwise noted in the course description. If you have questions about camera equipment or resources, contact us at pcnw@pcnw.org.
• Additional materials and supplies, not covered by a materials fee for a course, are the responsibility of the student. Detailed information about course expectations, required texts and materials will be provided at the start of the quarter.
• Students should prepare to spend several hours per week completing assignments outside of class, which may require use of the PCNW facilities; view our Rental Rates for details about additional fees. Rental fees for use of PCNW Facilities are a separate cost from tuition.

Images: Adair Rutledge work in progress plus installation at Hedreen Gallery; and artist Jasmine Brown's installation "Black Teen Wearing Hoodie, 2017" on PCNW exterior