Public Art Requirement Collection

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Lafayette's Public Art Requirement Collection

The Lafayette Municipal Code includes a public art requirement for new construction projects in commercial or multi-family residential zones within the downtown area. Developers can either install a public artwork on site—valued at no less than 1% of the final construction or renovation cost—or, if site conditions make installation infeasible, pay an in-lieu fee equal to that 1%.

To learn more, visit Chapter 6-26 of the Lafayette Municipal Code for details about the public art requirement and process.

For detailed information about the public art review process, visit Development Guidelines.

Latest Addition to Public Art Requirement Collection

Komorebi by artist Mariana Botero, installed in April 2025, is the most recent work commissioned as part of the City’s public art requirement. Located at Woodhaven, 3742 Mt. Diablo Blvd., the installation explores the emotional and sensory power of architecture through the dynamic interplay of light, shadow, texture, and color. Inspired by komorebi—the Japanese word for sunlight filtering through trees—the artist uses translucent materials to evoke moments of serenity and wonder. The work invites viewers into an ever-changing experience shaped by natural light, designed to elicit both physical and emotional responses.

Composed of six upright totems crafted from 1-inch thick translucent tempered glass, the installation ranges in height from 4 to 6.5 feet. Each piece is rendered in a vibrant hue—Golden Light Yellow, Honey Orange, Imperial Red, Green Apple, Azure Blue, and Indigo Purple—and arranged in a radial formation. As light shifts throughout the day, the totems transform, casting colorful shadows and reflections. At night, integrated uplighting further amplifies their luminous presence, creating a sanctuary of color, light, and form.

Mariana Botero, Komorebi (2025), Color laminated glass on steel plate structure

Press

LAMORINDA WEEKLY New public art planned for Lafayette, September 11, 2024

LAMORINDA WEEKLY Komorebi: A radiant new public artwork illuminates Lafayette, July 2, 2025

Coming Soon: Self-Guided Tours of Lafayette’s Public Art

This page will feature links to all artworks commissioned through the City of Lafayette’s public art requirement. The Public Art Committee is installing new standardized plaques on works completed since 2021, each featuring a QR code that links to information about the piece and the artist. These QR codes also allow us to add an educational component, offering deeper context and insight into each work. As you explore Lafayette, simply scan a plaque's QR code to learn more about the art that catches your eye.

We are also developing self-guided walking tours that will highlight public art throughout town—making it easier for residents and visitors alike to engage with Lafayette’s growing collection on their own schedule.