This paper examines the development of the concept of the "public" and the "people" in U.S. society. Community problem-solving is an art, and like the art of dance or the game of soccer, the dispositions and skills of communal life are learned by doing and reflecting on what has been done. This essay discusses the "arts" of democracy, including: (1) Active Listening; (2) Creative Conflict; (3) Mediation; (4) Negotiation; (5) Imagination; (6) Public Talk; (7) Public Judgement; and (8) Reflection. Practicing these skills contributes positively to one's community. This paper does not set out to be a "how to" recipe of community collaboration but offers research into these "arts" of citizenship and how they develop. (EH)