Art

8 Art Projects Changing Cities in 2025

Discover 8 transformative art projects in cities worldwide that are beautifying public spaces and sparking social change in 2025.

Por: Angela Leon Cervera
public art projects
Urban Light in Los Angeles. Photo: @lacma

Urban landscapes are evolving, and art is leading the charge. In 2025, cities worldwide are embracing public art projects that not only beautify spaces but also spark dialogue, foster connection, and inspire change.

 

These projects are redefining how we experience our surroundings, blending creativity with community impact. Let’s explore ten transformative initiatives that are turning streets, parks, and plazas into living galleries.

public art projects
Es Devlin "The Seed". Photo: @esdevlin
public art projects
Favela Mosaico. Photo: @favelapainting

How Are Art Projects Shaping Urban Identity?

Public art has always been more than decoration—it’s a reflection of a city’s soul. In 2025, this ethos is stronger than ever. Cities are commissioning site-specific works that celebrate local culture while addressing global issues like sustainability and inclusivity.

 

Take “Between Tides” at Rockaway Beach in Queens, New York. This project features sculptural ping-pong tables embedded in the sand, designed by artists like Moko Fukuyama and Amalia Pica.

 

The playful installations invite interaction while highlighting the delicate ecosystems of the waterfront—a perfect blend of art, community, and environmental awareness.

 

In Abu Dhabi, Es Devlin’s “The Seed” hovers above water on Jubail Island. This luminous sculpture symbolizes growth and regeneration while funding mangrove conservation efforts through ticket sales. It’s a reminder that art can be both beautiful and purposeful.

public art projects
“The Bean” In Chicago’s Millennium Park, Cloud Gate

Which Projects Are Revitalizing Public Spaces?

Some projects breathe new life into forgotten or underutilized spaces:

 

  1. Favela Mosaico in Rio de Janeiro transforms the Vila Cruzeiro neighborhood with vibrant mosaics created by residents themselves. This initiative fosters pride and unity while turning a favela into a colorful masterpiece.
  2. Urban Light in Los Angeles features 202 vintage street lamps outside LACMA. Chris Burden’s installation has become an iconic gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.
  3. In Chicago’s Millennium Park, Cloud Gate—affectionately known as “The Bean”—continues to captivate visitors with its reflective surface that mirrors the city skyline.

These projects demonstrate how art can reclaim public spaces, making them accessible and inviting for all.

public art projects
Favela Mosaico. Photo: @favelapainting

Can Art Projects Drive Social Change?

Art has the power to challenge norms and ignite conversations. In 2025, several projects are using this power to address pressing societal issues:

 

  • Carmen Winant’s “My Mother and Eye” spans bus shelters in New York, Chicago, and Boston with collages exploring themes of family and identity. By placing art in everyday spaces, this project makes profound ideas accessible to commuters.
  • In Berlin, the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe remains a poignant reminder of history’s darkest chapters. Its stark concrete slabs encourage reflection on collective memory and responsibility.
  • Meanwhile, London’s Somerset House is hosting an exhibition on soil’s role in our planet’s future—an artistic call to action for environmental stewardship.

 

These initiatives prove that public art can be both aesthetically pleasing and socially impactful.

Why Do These Projects Matter?

Art projects like these do more than beautify cities—they create shared experiences that bring people together. They turn ordinary spaces into extraordinary ones, fostering pride, curiosity, and connection among residents and visitors alike.

 

Whether it’s a mural in a bustling neighborhood or a sculpture in a serene park, these works remind us of the power of creativity to transform not just spaces but also perspectives.

 

 

In 2025, cities are embracing public art as a means of transformation—of spaces, communities, and ideas. From playful installations on beaches to poignant memorials in urban centers, these ten projects exemplify how art can inspire change while celebrating humanity’s shared stories.

 

As urban landscapes continue to evolve, one thing is certain: creativity will always find its place in the heart of our cities.

Everything You Need to Know About Public Art Projects

If you liked this article about art transforming cities in 2025, please share it. You may also be interested in “New York’s Hidden Art Gems Beyond Museum Mile” or “Ephemeral Art: Masterpieces That Last Just a Moment” Check out the other articles in our Culture section.

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