Black Women in Public Art: The UK's Next Move

Jan de Vries · 2026-11-12

Dawn-Maria France has a message for UK cities: it's time to put Black women at the heart of public art. She's urging local governments to commission works that celebrate Black women's contributions to history, civic life, and communities. And honestly, it's about time. ### Why This Matters Now Public art shapes how we see our cities and ourselves. For too long, the stories told in bronze and stone have left out Black women. France argues that commissioning art that honors their legacy isn't just about representation—it's about correcting the narrative. These women built communities, led movements, and shaped local history. Their stories deserve to be visible. ### The Ripple Effect When cities invest in public art that reflects all their residents, something shifts. People feel seen. Young Black girls grow up knowing their contributions matter. Communities start conversations about history that textbooks often skip. France points to cities like Bristol and London, where similar projects have sparked dialogue and pride. But it's not just about the art itself. It's about the process—consulting with Black women, ensuring their voices shape the projects. "Nothing about us without us," as the saying goes. ### What Cities Can Do France's call to action is practical: - **Audit existing public art** to identify gaps in representation. - **Commission new works** that center Black women's stories, led by Black women artists. - **Engage communities** in the design and placement of art. - **Fund maintenance** so these works endure. She also emphasizes the need for permanent installations, not just temporary exhibits. "Temporary feels like an afterthought," she says. "We need lasting tributes." ### The Bigger Picture This isn't just a UK issue. Across Europe and the US, public art often fails to reflect the diversity of the population. France's push is part of a broader movement to decolonize public spaces and make them truly public—for everyone. As cities reckon with their histories, public art becomes a powerful tool for healing and education. It's not about erasing the past but expanding it to include the stories that have been ignored. France's message is clear: Black women have always been part of the story. Now it's time for the art to show it.