Funding
The role of the public artist is self-funded through a trading account. This means that income is generated through commissions, and through providing services like bid writing, art and restoration advice.
Many of the projects are funded by specialist grants and not from the tax payer.
(image far right - Jan Blake - Maternity Entrance hanging sculpture called Nest)
Studio
The unit is based in the old Laundry Block at Himley Hall although work frequently takes place on site and at other locations. Studio visits can be made by appointment.
Client base
The Public Art Unit operates via a trading account, which means fees are charged for work undertaken by the borough artist, or any subcontracted artists.
The unit has worked for a very wide range of clients including: health trusts, the passenger transport executive Centro, schools, and Dudley Council, as well as other local authorities.
Work has also been undertaken in partnership with the private sector, encouraging developers to commission artwork on the basis of the percent for art, whereby a percentage of the cost of a new development is spent on art.
