Do Public Art Controversies in Recent Decades Influence Our Experience of Public Spaces in London? Part 1 Dissertation 2024 Emily Zaman University of Hertfordshire | UK Over recent decades, the introduction of public art has ignited a series of controversies. Controversies are disputes over contentious issues that provoke public debate and differences of opinion. Public art is no exception to this. It can positively or negatively affect public spaces. However, it will inevitably draw attention to the art and change people’s views as well as experience of the public space. Dolores Hayden (1997), who is a professor of architecture, urbanism, and American studies at Yale University, believes that “no public art can succeed in enhancing the social meaning of place without a solid base of historical research and community support”. Public art is only meaningful if its location is relative to the nature of the work. An art piece that contradicts its surroundings can create controversy and change how people perceive public spaces. Having become fascinated by the controversial art, it may be one of the many reasons people unite to share the experience. This dissertation explores notable controversies and examines how these controversies impact public space experiences, community inclusivity, tourism, and the economy. Emily Zaman Tutor(s) Thomas Trail