Fayetteville has seen a transformation in its public spaces thanks in part to the vision of the Arts Council. In 2017, the ArtScape Public Art Initiative was launched, bringing a bold new vision to the city’s streets. The initiative has since leased and purchased more than ten pieces of art each year, showcasing a diverse array of sculptures and installations that beautify and inspire. With a focus on engaging the public, ArtScape’s mission is to create thought-provoking works that not only enrich the city’s landscape but also spark conversation among residents and visitors alike.
“Public art enhances the urban realm, lending itself to vibrant, engaging spaces for visitors and residents alike,” says Ashanti Bennett, the Interim President/CEO, Cool Spring Downtown District. Bennett understands the importance of art in public spaces. “Communities are enriched by the opportunity to engage with art that is easily accessible — regardless of demographics — amplifying a sense of place, boosting quality of life, and ultimately supporting the growth of the local economy.”
ArtScape rotates out pieces each year to reflect the community's changing landscape. Visitors have just a few more months to engage with the current pieces on display. Each work has its own personality with new pieces that span a diverse spectrum of color, design, theme, and structure. Some pieces are functional art, like Greenspace Bench outside of the Cool Spring Downtown District Office. The piece is described by the artist, Matt Amante, as walking “the line between planter, bench, and sculpture.” Other works, like Kevin Vanek’s LOUD!, have hidden meanings.
“This work is meant to be a fun/funny attention grabber while also being a literal mouthpiece for the unheard.” The bright red lips and gold teeth point toward Market Square Loop outside of the Self Help Building.
ArtScape also hosts some permanent pieces that pepper different areas of the city, including downtown Fayetteville, Linear Trail, the Cape Fear River Trail, and the Fayetteville State University corridor. The 18 permanent pieces are valued at $198,000, largely funded by individual community members who want to beautify Fayetteville. Individuals can sponsor a piece for a year, too, explains Director of Development Josh Murray.
“Sponsoring an ArtScape piece is a tangible way individuals and small businesses can contribute to the vibrancy of Fayetteville, while publicly supporting the crucial role art plays in our local economy,” he said.
As the years go by, it’s clear that ArtScape is doing more than just showcasing art; it’s creating a sense of place and pride in the community.
“Public Art helps to engage our citizens and to attract visitors and tourists to our community as Fayetteville becomes a travel destination,” says Arts Council President and CEO Robert Pinson. “As we enter the ninth year, the program is one of the most successful public art exhibitions in North Carolina, drawing artists from across the country.”
Each new installation invites people to explore, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of Fayetteville in an entirely new way, ensuring that public art will be an integral part of Fayetteville’s vibrant culture for years to come.
ArtScape 8, the current iteration of public art pieces, will be removed in June to make way for ArtScape 9, which will run from June 27 to July 31, 2026. For more information, visit https://www.wearethearts.com/artscape8.

(Photo: Gothic Doorway, by Beau Lyday, is located at 318 Hay St. The piece is part of ArtScape 8. Photo courtesy of Arts Council of Fayetteville/Cumberland County)