The City of Hilliard is inviting residents to help shape the future of public art in the community through the launch of Artful and Alive: Hilliard’s Public Art and Placemaking Plan.
The plan will serve as a roadmap for City staff and officials as future public art projects are considered and implemented.
One major outcome of the process will be a national artist search to create site-specific public artwork outside The Well, Hilliard’s Recreation and Wellness Center. The artwork is expected to reflect Hilliard’s connection to nature, wellness and community.
The City is partnering with Designing Local, a nationally recognized firm based in Columbus that specializes in arts and culture led by a team of urban planners, landscape artists, and public art administrators.
Throughout the summer, residents will have several opportunities to share ideas and provide feedback. Share your feedback by taking the online survey here through Aug. 9, 2026.
Designing Local will host pop-up engagement throughout the summer at City of Hilliard events, including Bring the Zoo to You, Magic in the Park, Juneteenth Celebration, and other events.
“We want this plan to reflect the voices and ideas of the community,” said Ed Merritt, Director of Recreation and Parks. “Public art has the power to create welcoming spaces, celebrate Hilliard’s character, and bring people together in meaningful ways.”
The project is being led by the City’s Public Arts Commission, which advises and makes recommendations to City Council and the City Manager regarding the appropriation, funding, selection, acquisition, maintenance, and the thoughtful placement of public art throughout the community.
Feedback gathered throughout the process will help shape the plan’s initial findings and guide how public art is envisioned across the City for years to come.
