Creating an artistic buzz
UC urban design researcher Hyesun Jeong’s research noted in the New York Times
In the past, the public was given access to art in the form of oil paintings hanging on museum walls or marble statues in courthouse halls. Today, however, public art is extended to commercial foyers and the outdoors.
In a New York Times article, the publication states that public art commissions in 2023 totaled $4.4 billion from corporations, cities, airports, hospitals, churches and other organizations.
“Public art has emerged as a key component of urban revitalization,” says Hyesun Jeong, a University of Cincinnati assistant professor of urban design whose public art research study was mentioned in the NYT article.
Jeong recently received a National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) grant to expound on a research project she undertook that was specific to Cincinnati. This research indicates that foot traffic in areas with murals is three times greater than in other areas. She also found that public art in proximity to local commerce and mixed land use is significantly associated with a decrease in violent crime over the long term.
The NEA funded research examines the impact of public murals on street vitality, investigating their associations with foot traffic, crime, and commerce in Cincinnati and other U.S. metropolitan areas.
Featured image of mural in downtown Cincinnati by Jenny Ustick/UC Marketing + Brand.
Impact Lives Here
The University of Cincinnati is leading public urban universities into a new era of innovation and impact. Our faculty, staff and students are saving lives, changing outcomes and bending the future in our city's direction. Next Lives Here.
Related Stories
Donald P. Klekamp College of Law at the University of Cincinnati naming celebration
May 19, 2026
Joy reverberated in the atrium at the Donald P. Klekamp College of Law at the University of Cincinnati on Friday, May 15, 2026. Laughter, smiles, heartfelt speeches and an appearance by the Bearcat made for a special afternoon for the family, friends, University of Cincinnati alumni, students, faculty and leadership who gathered to celebrate the renaming of the college.
UC Serves gives back to Greater Cincinnati
May 18, 2026
UC Serves brought together more than 425 staff and faculty volunteers Friday, May 15, for a day of giving back to the community. It has drawn participation from across the University of Cincinnati since 2014.