A little history....

In 1983, Glendale City Council establishes an Ordinance to facilitate the inclusion of works of art in public areas. At the time, the Ordinance directs that 1/2 of 1 percent of total eligible capital project budgets be deposited into the municipal arts fund.

In 1983, the City of Glendale creates the first Public Arts Commission in the state. Comprised of seven citizen volunteers the Commission acts in an advisory capacity to City Council.

In 1984, the Arts Commission acquires its first two artworks created specifically for Glendale, “Arizona Promise,” by Robert McCall, and “Glendale Pioneers, 1910,” by Richard Szwarocky, which remain in the Portable Collection.

In 1991, City Council expands the Ordinance to include the performing arts.

In 1998, City Council amends Ordinance to increase funding to a full 1 percent.

In 2005, the Ordinance was amended to update definitions, procedures for expenditures and clarify terms, officers and duties for the Arts Commission.

In 2005, City Council approved the Glendale Guidelines for the Arts, an enabling policy document, providing a strategic framework for long range decision making and focused guidance for project and program implementation planning, representing the continuing evolution of the City’s efforts to enhance its visual and cultural environment.