Art museums are all very important - fragile art can’t be left on street corners. But what cities really need is art in public places. Art surrounding people as they go about their lives. Enriching, fascinating, or just plain challenging their perceptions and creating moments of delighted discovery.

The movement of a percent for public art started with the federal government about 30 years ago. Albuquerque thought it a great idea and joined other fledgling public art programs across the country. In 2008, Albuquerque Public Art Program celebrated its 30th anniversary.

According to Sherri Brueggemann, Public Art Program Manager, the city sets aside 1% of the voter approved general obligation bond that pays for the construction of public facilities for art. This includes roadways, storm drains, fire stations, police substations, libraries and senior centers and parks. That means there are many places to find public art in Albuquerque.

"Currently there are 620 pieces scattered around the city," notes Brueggemann. That includes everything to indoor framed limited edition prints, jewelry pieces on display at the airport to the piece entitled Cruising San Mateo, often called Chevy on a Stick by the community. The Bell Keepers grace the corner of Rio Grande NW and Alameda celebrate the triumph of persistence over hardship. And a charming tableau of a mother bear and cubs by a storm drain near Tramway and Manitoba.

Next time you take a walk or a drive, look around. There’s art all around you thanks to Albuquerque’s Public Art program

And if you’d like to see a map, or click your way through photos, visit Public Art