For too much of the Port’s history, the permanent artwork and rotating exhibits on view at PDX and the Port of Portland’s offices did not reflect the diversity and vibrancy of the region we serve.
But since then, Port leaders have taken steps to transform our art program, celebrating different lived experiences, showcasing the many forms fine art can take, and better reflecting the diversity of the Pacific Northwest.
“When you can see yourself reflected in the art that surrounds you, it’s really impactful.”
– Wendy Given
Art Program Manager Wendy Given led this transformation. As an artist herself, Wendy understood that in order to make the program truly accessible – to open doors and increase opportunities for underrepresented and historically excluded artists – we'd need to do more than just invite them to respond to a call for artwork. We’d need to re-evaluate our whole operation and identify the barriers that kept so many artists from responding to a call in the first place.
These fundamental shifts didn't happen in one big move. We started by using an equity lens to better understand the problem and brainstorm possible solutions.
“We asked ourselves three questions,” Wendy shared. “Who's overrepresented in our art program, who hasn’t had opportunity to be a part of it, and what can we -- the Port of Portland -- do about it?”
With these questions in mind, we made some significant shifts:
- We developed a new art program mission and crafted new goals based on a framework of equity, diversity and inclusion.
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We diversified the PDX Art Committee, the committee responsible for helping procure pieces for our permanent public art collection.
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We started compensating committee members for their time and expertise.
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We began awarding honorariums of up to $3,500 to artists participating in our temporary rotating art program.
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We’re focused on building and strengthening relationships in the local art community, taking time to engage in more direct outreach to BIPOC artists and other artists previously excluded from opportunities with the Port.
Our effort to make the art program more accessible to underrepresented artists and more reflective of the community we serve has only just begun, but we know this evolution is on the right track.
As Wendy said, “When you can see yourself reflected in the art that surrounds you, it’s really impactful. I’m proud that the Port is committed to celebrating the diversity of our region and investing in this important work.”
Learn more about the PDX Art Program.
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