Public Art Archive Help Center

The Public Art Archive Help Center is a space for clients using the Collection Management System (CMS), Collection Showcase, Interactive Map, and/or Special Projects features.

  • Access the CMS user manual and video tutorials to help you navigate your system.
  • Find information on past releases and forthcoming product features.
  • Update your Collection Showcase or Special Project page(s) using our simple form.
Visit the Help Center
Screenshot image of an artwork record in the Public Art Archive Collection Management System.

Whether you are just starting out or looking to build upon your existing documentation, the resources below provide guides, tools, and templates to help artists and organizations document public art portfolios and collections and contribute data to PAA.

Sculpture of an orange tree in an outdoor plaza

Gentle Breeze (2021). By Matthew Mazzotta. City of Boise Public Art Collection. Courtesy: City of Boise Arts & History Department, Case Conti Visuals

A comprehensive overview of the ways to submit your portfolio, collection, or individual artwork

Contribute Artwork to PAA

Public Art in Private Development (PAPD) Database

Originally built and maintained by art lawyer and subject expert Sarah Conley Odenkirk, the Public Art in Private Development (PAPD) Database is a dynamic collection of official ordinance documentation and other supporting materials created by communities across the United States pertaining to public art in private development programs.

Access the PAPD Database

Templates to guide your public art documentation

Guidelines for metadata and terminology for artwork documentation and classifications

Finding artworks’ geocoordinates

Resources to improve public art photography

Public Art Monuments

Visit this page for resources on public art monuments, memorials, and commemorative sculptures. Learn about cataloging best practices for artworks that have been removed and the evolving nature of monumentality.

Miscellaneous resources

Blog

Stay up to date on all things PAA. The PAA Blog features special projects, artworks we love, collection management tips and resources, and more.

Browse the Blog

Public Art: Resources from the Field

Looking for administration support or just want to learn more about public art? Explore these resources from the Public Art Archive and other trusted organizations.

Public Art Opportunities

Sample Contracts, Budgets & Policies

Public Art 101

Cultural Equity in the Public Art Field link roundup

Additional Public Art Resources

Not finding what you’re looking for?

Connect with the Public Art Archive team today.

Contact the PAA Team