HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-06-10 Public Art Advisory Committee
Public Art Advisory Committee
Thursday, May 6,2010
****3:30PM****
Lobby Conference Room
City Hall
410 E. Washington
*****NOTE TIME CHANGE*****
A. Call to order
B. Public discussion of any item not on the agenda
C. Consideration of the minutes of the April 1 , 2010 meeting
D. Sculpture Donation - Art Small
Art Small is offering a donation of wooden carved sculptures to the Public Art
program and will be available at the meeting to respond to your questions.
E. Downtown Sculpture's Showcase Entries
There have been 4 submissions for potential installation on the downtown
Sculptor's Showcase. These submissions will be reviewed and the committee
asked to recommend a piece for this temporary display opportunity.
F. Artsfest - Kidztent Update
G. Update on Poetry In Public/Art program
H. Committee time/updates/other?
I. Adjournment
MINUTES
PUBLIC ART ADVISORY COMMITTEE
THURSDAY, APRIL 1,2010
LOBBY CONFERENCE ROOM - CITY HALL
PRELIMINARY
Members Present: Rick Fosse, Patrick Carney, DaLayne Williamson, Annadora
Kahn, Janet Finlayson, Mike Moran
Members Absent: Mark Seabold
Staff Present: Jeff Davidson, Marcia Bollinger, Karl Burhop,
Public Present: Lisa Barnes, Summer of the Arts
CALL TO ORDER
Finlayson called the meeting to order at 3:31 PM.
PUBLIC DISCUSSION OF ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None
CONSIDERATION OF THE MINUTES OF THE MARCH 4,2010 MEETING
MOTION: Williamson moved to approve the minutes; Fosse seconded. The motion
passed 5:0.
DISCUSSION WITH LISA BARNES - SUMMER OF THE ARTS
Barnes talked to the Committee about this year's Artsfest and Kidz Tent. Barnes
commented that the location of Kidz Tent was good least year [near the intersection of
Dubuque into Washington] and asked the Committee if they wanted to go with two days
this year instead of one for the Kidz Tent. Finlayson asked if Committee members
thought they could get enough donations to do both days. Bollinger reminded the
Committee that Kidz Tent was done only on Sunday last year. Barnes asked when the
Kidz Tent would be started this year. Bollinger suggested noon.
Barnes reminded the Committee the timeline of Artsfest's events, including the pancake
dinner in Chauncey Swan Ramp; Finlayson said the ramp was a good location for the
pancake dinner. Barnes said that Sunday 12-4 for Kidz Tent might work, but wanted to
give one more week for artists to commit. Finlayson told the Committee that last year
she and another PMC member had simply divided up the streets to pick up art
donations. Kahn suggested nametags or something official, since last year she and
Kahn had looked unofficial, yet they were taking art pieces from people as donations to
Kidz Tent. Bollinger seconded this idea for an official badge. Barnes said that the next
communications with artists was to be in May. Acceptance letters for Artsfest will be
sent out on Friday [April 2].
Finlayson, Kahn, and Barnes all commented on gathering donations for Kidz Tent. They
all agreed; it is very artist dependent, with some artists giving many items for Kidz Tent
and others offering nothing. Bollinger further added that with advanced warning some
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Thursday, April 1, 2010
Page 2 of 6
artists made specific items for Kidz Tent. Barnes suggested that an effort should be
made to get more artwork from local artists.
Barnes moved to technical details, asking the Committee if they preferred three sides to
the tent and one open and so on. Bollinger said there was a problem with parents. The
Kidz Tent is just that, just for kids. Bollinger expressed a preference for sides to the tent
to keep parents out and allow kids complete independence in their art selection. Barnes
also commented that banner would have to be hung up somewhere. Two chairs are
needed for Kidz Tent volunteers. Burhop added that volunteers staffing the event need
to make sure they have adequate $1 and $5 bills on hand for change, as last year
children tended to purchase items with $20 bills.
Barnes stated that there would be 128 artists occupying 136 booths this year. Kahn said
that artists sometimes requested receipts. Barnes told the Committee that they should
tell SOTA how they want the Kidz Tent promoted. Bollinger replied that there should be
a new sculpture on the showcase pad by then and PAAC might request SOTA highlight
the sculpture somehow.
Barnes asked about Poetry in Public and Poetry in Public Art. Barnes talked about
displaying poetry and art pieces on US Bank wall or as freestanding piece around the
event. Barnes then discussed her idea of having poets read their poems at Artsfest and
that scheduling such an event would be easier because there was flexibility. Bollinger
reminded Barnes that there were adult poems as well. Barnes asked how many poems
there were. Burhop responded that there were 50 student (children) poems and 35 adult
poems. Barnes reminded the Committee that they could wing this event since there is
some degree of flexibility available in scheduling. Barnes said that a live poetry reading
might occur from 10-4 on Saturday on the family stage. Finlayson commented that she
liked the idea of having a live reading. Bollinger asked about stands for displaying art
and poetry. Barnes said either Plexiglas or laminate would work best. Finlayson asked
about the kiosks. Bollinger replied that poetry would be going up in kiosks. Barnes
suggested that business participating in the gallery walk might also incorporate poetry
and art. Carney thought several would participate in such a program. Williamson asked
if poetry could be placed in City Hall windows to the public. Barnes said there should be
a tie in with downtown businesses.
The Committee thanked Barnes for her work and ideas. Bollinger told Barnes that she
would get Barnes some more information. Barnes handed out a "save the date"
brochure of Artsfest to PAAC members. Finlayson and Barnes concluded that Artsfest
was looking good. Barnes left the meeting.
DISCUSSION WITH JEFF DAVISON ON ART PROJECT REGARDING
PANHANDLING METERS
According to Davidson the City Council was working to approve an anti-panhandling
ordinance that would involve modified parking meters. The parking meters would be
placed throughout downtown locations and encourage residents, visitors, etc. to donate
put money in the meters, as opposed to giving money to panhandlers. The money
donated to the modified meters then goes to help various programs and organizations
that offer assistance to homeless and at-risk persons. Other cities, including
Chattanooga, utilize meters for this purpose as well, and additionally, Chattanooga
incorporates artwork into their meters. Davidson asked the Committee for their thoughts
on incorporating public artwork with the meters. Davidson then added that this was an
immediate need with a pace faster than six months; April 2ih will be when the City
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Thursday, April 1, 2010
Page 3 of 6
Council moves on the proposed ordinance. Finally, Davidson suggested that schools or
art classes might be involves and that small stipend may be available.
Finlayson suggested contacting Iowa Arts Festival. Fosse stated that any artwork
needed to be of quality and durable; he further suggested letting businesses sponsor the
art pieces. Davidson replied that Denver uses sponsorships of meters. Finlayson
commented that a decent stipend is needed. Fosse added that the Herky's had
sponsorships. Bollinger suggested $5,000 or so. Davidson said that about ten meters
were to be utilized.
Kahn commented that she liked Jill Harper [City High art teacher] and her students and
their work on the Pheasant Ridge Park mosaic. Bollinger replied that Harper might be
busy finishing plinths and that the schools idea is good but needs to be approached
earlier. Davidson said that by June 1st hopefully there would be something. Finlayson
suggested calling for artists and a jury or contacting Bounnak.
Fosse said the meters would be retrofitted to say "thank you" when people put coins in.
Davidson said that any crazy or whimsical sculpture that stood out would be nice. Fosse
and Davidson agreed that the meters have had decent effects on panhandling in other
cities where implemented.
Finlayson stated that artists were needed and asked what's fair to ask for stipends or
sponsorships. Davidson said that each business gives $1,000 per year in Denver; he
further stated that the Committee would be allocated a reasonable amount for a stipend,
if needed. Williamson suggested having someone create the artwork during Artsfest.
Davidson replied that that would be great and asked if Williamson had anyone in mind.
Fosse asked if the sponsorship fee was one-time only in Denver. Davidson replied that
in Denver the fee was annual. Finlayson and Fosse agreed that $1,000 was very steep
for Iowa City. Moran suggested $250 for business sponsorships. Davidson again stated
that money would be made available from the finance director. Davidson also said that
perhaps Bounnak could maybe get ten artists for ideas on meter artwork. Finlayson and
Williamson agreed that perhaps Bounnak could be given this project. Bollinger said
other artists might be upset if they are not asked for inclusion. Carney suggested it
would be a good idea to do a call for artists. The entire Committee voiced agreement
with Carney's statement. Davidson left the meeting.
CONTINUED DISCUSSION REGARDING FUTURE PUBLIC ART PROGRAMS AND
COMMISSION
Finlayson commented that working with Bounnak is twofold; it could be very positive or
not positive. Bounnak has many good ideas, but he is also seeking work as well.
Bollinger commented that Bounnak is very honest and upfront. Kahn voiced
appreciation for Bounnak's effort and interest, but the Committee can't allow one artist to
takeover, which would be similar to a residency program. There is no problem with
hearing Bounnak though. Fosse pointed out that Bounnak maybe wants to be a CEO-
type person for the Committee at a time the Committee has less funding; there are
additional risks. Finlayson said she loves Bounnak's enthusiasm but prefers City- and
Committee-level participation. Finlayson said it would be great to have Bounnak in
some capacity and acknowledged that if the Committee wants to expand fundraising it
will require more bodies. Williamson commented that she too appreciates Bounnak's
enthusiasm and ideas, but it requires fundraising and expanding. Williamson said she
would like to see expansion, and asked the Committee about Bounnak's role.
Public Art Advisory Committee
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Page 4 of 6
Moran said he has had several discussions with Bounnak. Moran suggested inviting
Bounnak for ideas. Moran said the Committee should prioritize ideas and see where
Bounnak goes from there, if Bounnak is committed to PAAC and the City. Moran
restated his suggestion; let Bounnak lead us as long as PAAC is prioritizing. Carney
commented that Bounnak almost seems like a consultant and the Committee roundly
rejected consulting previously due to cost issues. Carney added that the Committee
should let Bounnak get involved and give ideas on art and funding. Bollinger more
funding is needed and asked if Bounnak will lead fundraising efforts.
Fosse suggested engaging Bounnak but reminded the Committee they are in
maintenance mode. Fosse restated his comment that expansion will take effort on
PAAC's part and if PAAC is ready to expand they should engage Bounnak, otherwise do
not engage Bounnak. Moran said that Bounnak should hear the Committee's discussion
so he fully understands their current situation. Fosse added that Bounnak certainly
offers considerable experience, and in the long-term Bounnak might want a large
project. Williamson said that the Committee may choose another sculpture, if such a
large project ever comes about. Kahn reiterated concern about Bounnak's individual
role and suggested Bounnak present his ideas like anyone else. Fosse believes
Bounnak does understand PAAC's current funding mode. Williamson added that PAAC
needs to be sensitive to the community's art appetite. Moran added that a large art
project at this moment is political unfeasible.
Carney asked how Cedar Rapids approved their hotel/motel tax. Bollinger said Cedar
Rapids simply applied for it, and the tax has to be used for cultural and tourist
development. Bollinger added that Linn County just passed a public art ordinance.
Fosse responded that it shouldn't be necessary to force public art with an ordinance.
Fosse added that the City just added seven manhole covers with City logo and now had
the parking meter project. Fosse said that Bounnak should be given the opportunity to
show an idea. Finlayson agreed that hopefully Bounnak would follow through with an
idea for the meters.
Finlayson reminded the Committee they needed to determine their own level of
commitment. Bollinger reminded the Committee there are restraints. Williamson
suggested the meter project could be used to "test the waters". Bollinger asked if the
Committee should give the meter project at Bounnak. The Committee responded in
unison that there should be call for all and any artists. Kahn reiterated that the
Committee reserved the right to then select whomever they wished. Carney framed the
issue well, saying the Committee should tell Bounnak they are calling for artists and
remind Bounnak that he is an artist. Finlayson added that the Committee should still
keep Bounnak as another artist and contact. Bollinger reminded the Committee that
Bounnak doesn't seek PAAC membership. Carney and Williamson agreed to put out a
call for artists. Kahn said a call for artists would include Bounnak and give him a
chance.
UPDATE ON POETRY IN PUBLIC/ART PROGRAM
Burhop and Bollinger updated the Committee on Poetry in Public and Poetry in Public
Art programs. Burhop commented that Poetry in Public was essentially wrapping up as
poets had received their final display version and poems have been sent to Iowa City
Transit for display in buses. Burhop commented that the next step was to display poems
in downtown kiosks and City recreation buildings.
Burhop and Bollinger updated the Committee on the art program, commenting that the
deadline for art submissions based on selected poetry was April 30. At that point
Public Art Advisory Committee
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Page 5 of 6
submitted artwork would be sent to poets for selection. Selected artwork will then be
displayed with poetry in public locations and at Artsfest. Carney stated he would be
happy to help with the project.
COMMITTEE TIME/UPDATES
The regularly scheduled meeting for PAAC will occur on May 7, 2010.
ADJOURNMENT
Fosse motioned to adjourn; Carney seconded. Meeting adjourned at 4:36 PM.
Minutes submitted by Karl Burhop.
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