The City of Newark’s Division of Arts and Cultural Affairs serves as a catalyst for participation, education, collaboration, and development in the arts. The Division oversees the City’s arts initiatives, supports community engagement and cultural programming, strengthens local arts institutions, and develops a world-class public art program. Through partnerships and investment in Newark’s artists and arts organizations, the Division works to build a more sustainable, equitable, inclusive, and creative economy that enriches neighborhoods and inspires residents of all ages.

City of Newark Division of Arts and Cultural Affairs will provide expertise in Newark’s artists, cultural history, public art programs, community relationships, and existing cultural resources. The Division will help identify significant artworks, artists, histories, and gaps in the current public record.

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The Department of Economic and Housing Development (EHD) will contribute expertise in Newark’s built environment, neighborhood development, historic preservation, landmarks, cultural resources, and the relationship between public art and the city’s physical and economic landscape. The department’s broader mission to strengthen Newark’s economic and civic vitality provides an important context for understanding arts and culture as part of the city’s assets and public realm.

Students will meet with the client partners at the beginning of the semester to establish project goals, audiences, existing resources, research questions, and practical requirements. Regular client reviews throughout the semester will allow students to present research, test design directions, receive feedback, and refine the final work in response to real-world needs.