Susan Korres says Arts Fest 2026 drew about 8,000 and boosted public engagement
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Summary
Susan Korres, of the county Office of Community Development, told the Public Art Advisory Committee that county sponsorship and an interactive booth at Arts Fest 2026 produced roughly 8,000 visits over two days, 300 survey-engagement bags distributed and clear public priorities for public art.
Susan Korres, of the Martin County Office of Community Development, told the Public Art Advisory Committee on March 23 that Arts Fest 2026 was well attended and provided robust community engagement.
“We give $10,000 each year,” Korres said, describing the county sponsorship that provided a large booth, signage and an interactive art activity. “There was about 8,000 attendees over the 2 day festival,” she said, and the county distributed 300 survey bags to encourage feedback.
Korres summarized the survey results as showing that residents want public art to support local artists and creative careers, beautify public spaces and prioritize murals and functional art such as benches and bike racks. She said parks, downtowns and commercial areas were cited as where art would have the greatest impact.
A committee member asked whether festival organizers were satisfied with the giveaway items; Korres said they were, adding that the sponsorship helped the festival defray costs and provided strong volunteer support.
The chair opened and closed the public comment section with no members of the public speaking. The committee approved minutes from the Jan. 26 meeting before proceeding with staff presentations.
Korres said the county will continue outreach channels, including posting images and interviews on the AIPP website and working with the Florida Association of Public Art Professionals at an upcoming conference in West Palm Beach to gather ideas for future events.
