HISTORY
In May, 2004, Governor Brad Henry signed into law Senate Bill 1347, “State of Oklahoma: Art in Public Places Act” a bill that supports public art in Oklahoma. The new law incorporates artwork in, on, or near new state buildings or those with major renovation projects.

BACKGROUND
Public art reflects the local environment, cultural values and artistic vitality of Oklahoma communities. This law offers opportunities for local artists and also provides a vehicle for Oklahoma communities to express their identity, spirit and pride. More than 350 public art programs across the U.S. support projects in airports, libraries, parks, government buildings and neighborhoods and some 28 states have public art laws.

REQUIREMENTS
The “State of Oklahoma: Art in Public Places Act” requires that 1 1/2 percent of the cost of construction or major renovation of state-owned public buildings approved after September 1, 2004, must be allocated for works of art in or near the project. The act applies to construction or renovation projects costing $250,000 or more. The maximum assessment for any one project is $500,000.

OVERSIGHT
The law requires two oversight committees to ensure that commissioned art is of the highest quality and meets community standards. The Oklahoma Historical Society administers the Act in cooperation with the Oklahoma Arts Council. The law does not apply to water, sewer or public utility projects or to projects undertaken by public school districts, prisons or city and county governments.

Rules and Regulations & Guidelines

The following is a copy of the promulgated Oklahoma Art in Public Places Rules and Regulations which were adopted in accordance with the Secretary of State’s Administrative Rules on Rulemaking. Rules and Regulations

The following is a copy of the Oklahoma Art in Public Places Pogram Guidlines. Program Guidelines