Helen Lessick
Civic Art and Design Director
PHONE: 713.527.9330

The City of Houston recognizes the importance of expanding the opportunities for its citizens to experience civic art through the creative expression of its visual artists in public places. Therefore, in 1999, the City of Houston established an ordinance mandating that 1.75% of qualified Capital Improvement Project monies be set aside for civic art.

Further, the City recognized that once artwork is placed throughout the City, it is necessary to provide for the on-going maintenance and conservation. Providing for such care demonstrates civic pride, ensures the preservation of the artist's intent and retains or increases the value of the city art collection.

Thus Civic Art Program includes funding for professional art conservation treatment for the City's art collection.

The Houston Municipal Art Office serves as contract administrator for all new art projects for non-enterprise city departments and all professional conservation projects for the Civic Art Program. Under contract with the City of Houston, new art projects are provided through the Houston Arts Alliance, an independent, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization with a professional staff dedicated to improving the community's environment through the inclusion of art in infrastructure projects.