While exploring downtown, you’ve likely noticed surprising murals, sculptures, and perennial gardens in unexpected places. These works of art have been curated and installed by local nonprofit The Avenue Concept, the city’s first privately funded public art program. With new wayfinding signage and illustrated maps at each site, they’re easier than ever to find.

The organization recently announced its public art program for summer/fall 2018, including the world premiere of Free Fall III by metalworker Rado Kirov at Empire and Fountain streets in La Salle Square, and the unveiling of two new sculptural installations: Gabriel Warren’s Column 6 on an existing sculpture pad at Fountain and Dorrance streets, and Wild Horses by metalworker Peruko Ccopacatty in the plaza at Union Station. Download the complete program for the season here.

On the last Saturday of each month, join herbalist and urban farmer Jessyloo Rodrigues for a free guided walking tour of The Avenue Gardens. You’ll have an opportunity to learn about how the gardens divert rainwater, filter pollutants, and provide refuge for pollinators. Meet in front of The Dean Hotel, 122 Fountain Street, at 11 AM on August 26th, September 30th, and October 28th.

The Avenue Concept nurtures and supports public art ecosystems by investing in permanent infrastucture, funding public art projects, documenting and promoting the work of artists, and more. Since its founding in 2012, the organization has installed or exhibited more than 150 works of public art and has invested more than $1 million in artwork and infrastructure. For more information, visit theavenueconcept.org.