Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-09-15 Public Art Commission Summary Minutes IS POSTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54954.2(a) OR SECTION 54956 PUBLIC ART COMMISSION Saturday, September 15, 2020 Virtual Conference 2:00 -6:00 p.m. ANNUAL PAC RETREAT MINUTES Commissioners Present: Loren Gordon, Ben Miyaji, Hsinya Shen, Nia Taylor, Ian Klaus Staff present: Kristen O’Kane, Director, CSD Elise DeMarzo, Public Art Program Director Nadya Chuprina, Public Art Program Coordinator Denise Laxen di Zazzo, Public Art Program Communications CALL TO ORDER – The meeting was called to order at 2:06 pm by Chair Miyaji. ADDITIONS, CHANGES, REQUESTS, DELETIONS – None. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS – None. NON-ACTION: Staff shared a special presentation and led discussion on current trends in the field of public art in response to the COVID-19 health crisis. Staff provided an overview of ongoing public art projects in municipal and private development, as well as existing and upcoming temporary installations, collection care priorities, status of Code:ART2 and California Ave District Public Art Plan in order to set the context for the formulation of a work plan and prioritized projects in years 2020/21. Staff also provided a detailed overview of the Public Art Program funding structure and current state of CIP budgets. Staff and the Commissioners discussed the possible suspension of the Percent for Art Ordinances and potential ramifications of funding cuts. Commissioners reviewed the updated PAMP status grid and led a discussion regarding objectives, short- and long-term goals and prioritization of public art initiatives that would support the community wellbeing , boost the local economy is commercial corridors, as well as advance social and racial justice and equity. Commissioners drafted a list of the following objectives and working priorities: o Encourage public art in support of Palo Alto’s storefronts and commercial corridors with the emphasis on community rehabilitation from the COVID crisis to help support PA business vitality and pedestrian traffic. (e.g. microgrants for temporary public art). o Implement public art projects with the emphasis on cultural inclusion and social and racial equity. (project opportunities: transportations gateways e.g. BLM mural). o Commission projects that advance PAMP long-term goals while responding to current issues and supporting a wider network of artists. o Widen education and advocacy for public art (e.g. position paper; infographic). o Adopt and implement the California Avenue district Public Art Master Plan. Consultant Elizabeth D. Foggie joined the retreat to introduce herself to the commissioners and lead a discussion about the scope and objectives of the Racial and Cultural Equity Consulting process with the Public Art Program and Commission. Commissioners and consultant discussed ways to extend the network of diverse artists and develop public art projects that would be more inclusive in nature and reach diverse populations in Palo Alto and beyond. No action was taken. Meeting adjourned at 5:48 pm by Chair Miyaji.