Art Is a Universal Tool of Human Expression

Written and photographed by Cristina Murano.

I have been fortunate to travel extensively throughout North America, Europe, and Asia, capturing public works of art in each city I have visited. The collection of photographs featured here speaks to the power of art and its ability to engage us, stir our hearts, provoke our minds, and foster understanding. Some of the pieces I photographed were commissioned and/or sanctioned by a local municipality; others were done independent of bureaucracy, but as a compelled act of communication. Either way, each artist’s expression of their vision not only captured my attention but comforted and inspired me. There can be profound connections in art. Public art, in particular, is special because it is a vital aspect of public space, open communication, access, and community and, I believe, foundational to healthy, democratic, and compassionate cities.

The Photographer

Cristina Murano’s work is in the areas of education, equity, public governance, and sport with a focus on youth, women, and 2SLGBTQ+ people. She is originally from Toronto, Canada. Instagram: @profondoluce   Twitter: @cristinamurano