This chapter contributes to the discussion on cultural democracy by examining its intersection with participatory art, arguing for a reframing of cultural democracy as a political demand rather than merely inclusive access to art. The chapter underscores the democratic potential of cultural democracy, emphasising that it extends beyond “art for and by everyone” and includes the creation of art as a form of deliberation in a democracy. By viewing participatory art as a practice that, theoretically, embodies the principles of cultural democracy, the chapter highlights active participation in the arts as a significant platform for democratic engagement, particularly for marginalised voices. Key preconditions for participatory art to fulfil the ideals of cultural democracy are identified, including bottom-up, place-based approaches, horizontal power dynamics, and a commitment to (ethical approaches to) inclusivity. If these preconditions are met by participatory art projects, both practitioners and researchers may be able to more effectively look at, and measure effects of small-scale, temporary practices of cultural democracy, while analysing the participatory process of the creation of art as democratic deliberation. This, in turn, by means of necessary longitudinal studies, may give us more insight into a realised, sustained cultural democracy.