Arts & Sciences

Program Description

This program revolves around cultural non-profit funding and public art within the community. The Arts and Sciences fund utilizes dedicated Bed, Board, and Beverage (BBB) Tax Revenues to support the operations of local arts, science, and cultural organizations, along with their projects. For more, see the Beautification and Public Art Guidelines.

Arts & Sciences Non-Profits

Arts & Sciences non-profits enliven Flagstaff, bringing theater, the arts and scientific activities to the Flagstaff community. The city's flow-through funding to Creative Flagstaff supports more than 40 local arts and science organizations annually with both operating and project support.

Public Art Program

Public art gives cities and neighborhoods distinct character and a sense of place. It encourages communication, promotes neighborhood identity, and creates urban exclamation points for visitors and residents alike. Whether a sculpture, mural, mosaic, or photo collage, each artwork tells a story—some inspiring, some meditative, many with whimsical surprises, while others are expressly intended to leave a legacy for future generations. Public art under this program is funded and owned by the public. It is accessible to all and viewable with no admission fee. 

Public artworks are typically solicited through a call-to-artists process and are juried by a selection panel made up of community members. The Beautification and Public Art Commission reviews all public art projects. Many of the city’s pieces are inspired by the natural surroundings and local culture of Flagstaff and northern Arizona to reflect the rich heritage of the area. 

Recent projects include: 

  • Among Trees by Marie Jones, Flagstaff Municipal Court (pictured below)
  • The Coconino Scroll by Pete Goldlust and Melanie Germond, Flagstaff Pulliam Airport
  • Touch home, reach sky by Maria Salenger/Jones Studio, Flagstaff City-Coconino County Public Library
  • Traffic Cabinet Art-Wraps by mostly local artists

Learn more about the City of Flagstaff's public art collection and take a self-guided tour at Discover Flagstaff: Public Art and Art Map page.

Indoor Art Program

The Public Art program includes an indoor art program at city-owned facilities, including the Joe C. Montoya Community & Senior Center, Aquaplex, City Hall, and the Flagstaff Pulliam Airport. Paintings, sculptures and photography are on display.

Ribbon CuttingImage: Local artist Marie Jones celebrates the unveiling of her installation, Among Trees, with Mayor Deasy, Councilmembers, Beautification and Public Art Commission Chair Anthony Garcia and members of the public in 2021. This piece is located on the east side of the new Municipal Court on North Beaver Street.