Landmarks has its origins in a policy for Art in Public Spaces that was approved in 2005 by The University of Texas System Office of the General Counsel and the Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. The policy sets aside 1-2 percent of capital improvement projects to acquire public art. Considerations for participating projects include the location and purpose of the building, its overall budget, and the extent to which it includes public spaces. While this policy funds the acquisition of public art on campus, ongoing operations such as conservation and education programs are supported by private contributions.