New art displayed at City Hall.

Bozeman’s One Percent for Art program, an ordinance that requires that one percent of construction costs of new or remodeled city-owned property be used for public art installations, has brought vibrancy to Bozeman City Hall. As of Tuesday, April 21, an art piece called ‘Saints and Poets, Maybe’ was installed. The piece, created by Bozeman-based Artist Jennifer Alden, offers a glimpse into what it means to live in Bozeman.

The title, ‘Saints and Poets, Maybe,’ comes from Thornton Wilder’s 1938 play, ‘Our Town.’ The play explores whether anyone can ever truly realize life while living, hinting that only those touched by creativity or moral grace can fully savor life’s ephemeral beauty. 

“Wilder’s masterpiece, ‘Our Town,’ holds a special place in my heart,” explained Jennifer Alden. “It captures an idyllic slice of small-town American life by highlighting a simple, communal existence where neighbors know each other, doors remain unlocked and beauty is witnessed in everyday rituals like shared meals, schoolyard games, and the rhythm of chores.”

“Our beloved Bozeman beautifully reflects this spirit,” says Alden. “While we experience growth and change, at our core, we remain a quaint river and mountain town, steeped in warmth and familiarity, and truly a place where we can live each day to the fullest.”  

The One Percent for Art program only applies to projects with costs over $500,000 and does not apply to other types of city-owned infrastructure, such as water or stormwater facilities and street reconstruction. Bozeman City Hall recently completed a renovation, qualifying for the ordinance. The ordinance was put into effect in December 2020.

“This art piece offers everyone a chance to glimpse and reflect on life in Bozeman as we are living it,” said City Manager Chuck Winn. “As an organization devoted to enhancing the quality of life for our residents, I can think of no better place to showcase this art than City Hall. We are grateful to have artists like Jennifer Alden living in our community and providing us with such a beautiful and thought-provoking piece.”

Those interested in learning more about the Percent for Art Ordinance can call the Bozeman City Manager’s office at 406-582-2306.