RESTON’S PUBLIC ART MASTER PLAN

IPAR has launched a process to create a world-class public art master plan for Reston—following on our long tradition of internationally recognized planning excellence first initiated by founder Robert E. Simon—as the first step in bringing world-class public art to our community. We have an opportunity to build community, improve the aesthetic environment in Reston, and position Reston as an innovator in public arts programs. A well-defined Master Plan is critical to the success of all of these aspirations.

Reston’s Public Art master plan will outline a vision for public art in Reston, key opportunities for new projects, and an action plan for success. The vision and goals will address why public art is important to Reston, and what public art can accomplish. The plan will also include recommendations for projects, suggestions about how to fund the projects, and descriptions of the roles different organizations will play in successfully realizing Reston’s public art ambitions.

The plan will not include specific concepts or designs for artworks or recommendations for artists. These issues (artist selection, concept design) will be addressed on a project-by-project basis.

The many facets of the Reston community will be consulted and involved along the way. There will be a community forum May 29 and a charrette May 31. The planning team is conducting roundtables with groups such as artists, business leaders and residents, and will be involving local high school art students. Everyone in the community is urged to answer the Reston public art survey.

IPAR has hired the consulting team of Todd W. Bressi and Meridith C. McKinley, national experts in urban design, planning and public art to lead the effort. The team’s work in San Jose, Vancouver, Calgary and Arlington has placed them in the vanguard of art consultants throughout the country. Bressi is based in Philadelphia and McKinley’s firm, Via Partnership, is based in St. Louis.