Every year on April 15, art lovers across the globe celebrate World Art Day, a day dedicated to the creative expression that enriches our communities and brings people together. Addison is home to one of the most vibrant public art collections in the country (yep, more art per capita than anywhere else in Texas!). Our parks, trails, and public spaces are filled with sculptures, installations, and artistic surprises that reflect creativity and culture.

Whether you're an art lover, an afternoon stroller, or someone who just appreciates a good selfie backdrop, here's where to find Addison’s top public art installations—from towering sculptures to vibrant murals—this World Art Day.

Blueprints at Addison Circle by Mel Chin and Michael Van Valkenburgh

Photo of Blueprints at Addison Circle

Location: Addison Circle Park
This is the Addison landmark. Towering over four stories high and stretching 140 feet wide, this bold blue sculpture symbolizes the town’s ongoing growth—complete with real architectural blueprints embedded into the design. Created by artists Michael Van Valkenburgh and Mel Chin, it’s a must-see (and must-snap).

 

Meditation by Joshua Tobey

Photo of artist Joshua Tobey with Meditation

Location: Addison Circle Park
New to the scene and already a fan favorite, this whimsical bronze bear sits peacefully in a lotus pose. Whether you're here to reflect, laugh, or pose next to him, this piece offers a quiet (and Instagrammable) moment in the middle of the action.

The Addison Mural by Ali Koch

Public Art

Location: AMLI Addison Apartments

You can’t celebrate Addison without celebrating this beauty. Created by artist Ali Koch, founder of Ali K. Design, this mural is a bold, black-and-white love letter to the town itself. The word ADDISON stretches across the wall in large capital letters, with hand-drawn illustrations inside each one featuring iconic symbols of the community.

Light and Energy by Chris Byars

Photo of Light and Energy Sculpture

Location: Beltway Drive & Marsh Lane
These towering, colorful sculptures bring serious movement and vibrance to a busy intersection. Originally designed for an office park, they’ve since been restored and relocated to become a pop of color and creativity for everyone to enjoy.

Lost in Wisconsin by Nic Noblique 

Photo of Lost in Wisconsin Sculpture

Location: Addison Athletic Club

Sculptor Nic Noblique is known for large-scale metal works full of dynamic movement. This abstract piece, painted Addison blue, adds a spark of curiosity and conversation to the park setting. Walk around it—it looks different from every angle.

A Profound Secret by Nic Noblique

Photo of sculputre A Profound Secret

Location: Arapaho Trail Park

History buffs, this one’s for you. Using salvaged materials from Addison’s original cotton gin (built in 1902), this sculpture honors the town’s agricultural roots and inventive spirit. A thoughtful and unexpected piece nestled in nature.

Take the Self-Guided Art Tour

Want the full experience? Download the Otocast app on Apple or Google Play for a self-guided audio tour of Addison’s public art collection. You’ll hear directly from the artists, learn the stories behind each piece, and get directions to every location. Perfect for a solo adventure, date idea, or weekend art walk.

The Addison Arbor Foundation: Cultivating Beauty

A key partner in shaping Addison’s artistic environment is the Addison Arbor Foundation. This nonprofit organization has been instrumental in enhancing public spaces through both art and nature. By commissioning sculptures, funding tree plantings, and supporting landscape projects, the Addison Arbor Foundation ensures that beauty—both natural and artistic—flourishes in our town. Their commitment to integrating sculpture with green spaces makes Addison’s parks and walkways even more inviting, proving that art and nature go hand in hand.