In busy cities and quiet corners of the world alike, public art acts as a heartbeat—pulsing with stories that shape our communities. The second season of Remote, our video series on contemporary art, takes us deeper into this landscape, where filmmaker Badir McCleary continues his quest to understand how art reflects and transforms the spaces we inhabit.
In Remote: Season Two, Badir, a self-described “heavy traveler,” expands his geographic horizon, venturing into new territories that redefine our understanding of public art. He captures a wide array of stories—from monuments and planned art parks to spontaneous graffiti and enormous installations nestled in unexpected locales. With each episode, we’re invited to witness how art serves as a lens through which we can better understand the social fabric and historical context of cities, spaces, and communities across the U.S.
Reflecting on the season’s themes, Badir emphasizes the critical role of artists in shaping public discourse: “Public art isn’t just in plain sight—it’s a living dialogue between artists, cities, and the people who move through them,” he explains. Season Two builds on the successes of Season One, where Badir visits a surreal outdoor exhibition in Coachella Valley, reevaluates the booming art scene in Texas, and returns to his hometown of Philadelphia to explore the city’s historical legacy.
Catch up on Remote: Season One here, learn more about the Remote series here, then scroll down for a sneak peek into Remote: Season Two, set to debut on NOT REAL ART in July 2025.
Episode 1: Art Parks and Outdoor Museums
In Remote’s first episode, Badir journeys into the world of art parks and outdoor museums, where art and nature intertwine. These spaces transform public landscapes into open-air galleries, allowing everyone to experience art in a fresh, dynamic way. Renowned artists and curators share their insights on the philosophy behind creating these parks, highlighting their role in fostering community engagement. Through stunning drone footage and personal interactions between visitors and installations, Badir showcases the profound impact these environments have on public spaces. This episode explores how this accessibility invites a broader audience and inspires meaningful connections between art, nature, and the people who inhabit these spaces.
Episode 2: Monuments of Dedication
In the second episode, Badir turns his attention to monuments, the powerful structures that immortalize moments, individuals, and events. These towering embodiments of memory often evoke strong emotions and provoke thought, prompting us to consider their role in shaping collective identity. Badir delves into the stories behind these monuments, examining how they influence our collective historical memory and spark controversy. With close-up shots that capture intricate details and wide angles that illustrate their grand locations, Badir investigates how these iconic works of art contribute to the fabric of our public spaces and the narratives we choose to celebrate or challenge.
Episode 3: Street Art and Graffiti
Graffiti takes center stage in the third episode, which highlights the spontaneous and rebellious nature of street art. This form of public art is electric, raw, and at times contentious—what some view as art, others may see as vandalism. Yet, one undeniable aspect is that street art serves as a powerful voice for communities, infusing urban landscapes with color, energy, and expression. Through time-lapse footage and fresh interviews, Badir explores what makes graffiti so captivating and examines how it pushes the boundaries of traditional art forms in public spaces.
Episode 4: Remote Destinations
Adventure awaits in the fourth episode as Badir ventures to “remote” destinations, uncovering art in some of the most unexpected places. The thrill of finding art nestled within untouched landscapes adds a layer of magic to our exploration. Badir journeys through mountains, rivers, and isolated locales, showcasing art installations that blend seamlessly with their natural surroundings. Artists and curators share their motivations for placing art in these far-flung sites, often aiming to engage audiences willing to seek them out. As Badir documents the awe-inspiring scenery and the effort required to reach these artworks, he reflects on how these hidden gems challenge our notions of accessibility and invite us to consider why art is worth the journey.
Episode 5: Historical References That Shape Our World Today
Our fifth episode invites you to reflect on how public art interacts with history, serving as a medium to challenge and reflect on historical narratives. Badir examines specific artworks and monuments that resonate with contemporary issues, revealing how they invoke discussions around memory, identity, and social context. Through expert insights and vivid visuals, episode 5 unpacks stories behind significant public art pieces, exploring how they can commemorate and critique the past. As we engage with these artworks, we’ll ask crucial questions about whose stories are represented and whose are overlooked, encouraging viewers to contemplate public art's role in shaping our understanding of history and its relevance today.
Episode 6: The Future of Public Art
In the season finale, Baidr looks ahead to the future of public art, exploring how it continues to evolve in response to societal changes. This episode features conversations with emerging artists and curators pushing boundaries and reimagining what public art can be in increasingly diverse landscapes. He delves into the incorporation of technology and interactive elements that engage audiences in new ways alongside discussions on sustainability and community involvement. By capturing these innovative ideas and trends, Badir aims to inspire viewers through the limitless potential of public art.
Badir McCleary / Art Above Reality: Website | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube
This interview has been edited for length and clarity. All photos published with permission of the artist(s).