The Arts & Culture team is hiring—we’re looking for a Public Art Administrator to guide the evolution and refinement of Portland’s public art programs! The person for this role will be ready to imagine what’s next, not just manage what already exists. They’ll oversee the City’s public art collection, Percent for Art program, contractor coordination, public engagement initiatives, and more. 🎨
Under Portland City Code, 2% of eligible City infrastructure project costs are dedicated to public art. These funds commission, purchase, and maintain artworks across the city, support artist-in-residence programs, and help develop creative spaces. Since the 1980s, more than 1,700 works of art have been added to the collection and showcased across neighborhoods, parks, and public buildings. Today, the program emphasizes acquiring work from underrepresented artists and bringing art to historically underserved communities.
As the Public Art Administrator, this person will not only oversee the conservation and expansion of this collection, but also shape the future of public art in Portland. Working across city bureaus, with community partners, contractors and directly with artists, this position offers a unique opportunity to develop policies, launch new initiatives, and ensure that public art remains a central and accessible part of Portland’s identity.