Minutes

Public Art Commission

September 17, 2010

Regular Meeting

Attendance:

Commissioners:  Bussell, Edson, Davis, Wilkerson, Seltzer (staff)

Absent:  Pugh, Wynkoop, Lemhouse (council liaison)

Chair Bussell called meeting to order at 8:15 a.m.

Minutes from the August 20 meeting were approved with corrections.

Discussion on UB project

The group discussed the most recent utility box painting project and identified areas that need improvement.  The PAC will research other communities including Reno and Victoria to review the RFP process and artist contract language.  Seltzer reported that the artist originally scheduled to paint the box on the Calle is unable to do so.  That box will remain unpainted until the next go around.

Discussion about selection criteria

The group reviewed the proposed changes to the selection criteria provided by Bussell.  All agreed that changes to the existing criteria selection process needed changes.  In addition to the changes proposed by Bussell, Wilkerson suggested weighting the criteria.  The group agreed that the updates need to occur prior to spring 2011 when the next selection process will occur with sculpture on the Calle.

New Horizon Mural Costs

Bussell gave an overview of mural costs in Delta Co. which ranged from $3500 to $35,000 based on preparation of the site and the size.  The group discussed the need to develop a process/guidelines for engaging in murals on public property: if the property owner cannot finance the cost to what degree does the PAC get involved in fundraising?  It was acknowledged that a mural on private property can enhance the value of that property and should the PAC involved in enhancing that value?

It was agreed to research other cities mural programs and get examples of RFPs.

Peace Wall dedication

The dedication of the Peace Wall is scheduled for Tuesday, September 21 at 5:15 at the Library.

Ashland Gallery Association

Davis reported that the AGA voted to allocate funds to public art but wants some control over how the money is spent. They anticipate between $5,000 to $10,000 could be available annually.  They are asking for a proposal from the PAC as to how those funds would be spent.  The group discussed a few possibilities including an overview/master plan for the gateway public art placeholder.  Seltzer will research the original master plan developed for the gateway during the Siskiyou redesign project.

Gallery Guide

The Ashland Gallery Guide is holding one to two pages for an article about public art.  Wilkerson and Edson will draft the article due on December 1.  It was agreed the article should be about the Peace Wall and the role of the PAC in that project.

Next meeting:

October 15 and November 19.

Meeting adjourned 10:00 a.m.