Minutes

Public Art Commission

August 20, 2010

Regular Meeting

Attendance:

Commissioners:  Bussell, Wynkoop, Wilkerson, Pugh, Davis, Lemhouse (council liaison) Seltzer (staff)

Absent:  Edson

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

Minutes from the June 18 meeting were approved.

Peace Wall

The Commission approved the following wording for the Peace Wall and requires the signage measure no greater than the size of two tiles.

“The Ashland Peace Wall

Banners on a fence transformed by a community into wisdom on a wall

Dedicated September 21, 2010”

Councilor Lemhouse will represent the City at the dedication and say a few words.

Plaza Art

Seltzer explained the wooden structure on the Plaza which is used to hide various utility meters is available for public art.  The City has $2500 to spend on the project.

The PAC had general discussion about what type of public art to seek (mural, hardscape etc.).  The project is not time sensitive.  Bussell will form a subcommittee to discuss the project and consider moving forward next spring.

New Horizons Mural

Seltzer explained New Horizon Woodworks owner Josh Folick has proposed a mural to be painted on the back of his building to depict the history of the various manufacturing/businesses in the area of Helman street.

Mr. Folick is willing to pay for a portion of the project and asks if the PAC could secure grants for the balance.  Davis suggests creating a vision statement and seeking requests for qualifications (RFQ) to establish a pre-qualified artist list.  Wilkerson agreed and commented it will be critical to determine the criteria of the mural prior to seeking RFQ.  Davis suggested a $500 stipend to artists who submit an RFQ.  Comments were also made that it will be important to meet with/work with local historians to determine the history of the area prior to seeking RFQ. 

Bussell commented that the deadline for grants submissions to the Oregon Art Commission is usually in October so it’s not likely the work can be done by October and the group should focus on completing the upfront leg work prior to October 2011.  Push, Davis and Bussell agreed to work as a subcommittee on the project.

Lloyd Haines proposal

Lloyd Haines is asking the PAC to oversee the installation/coordination of murals/art in the area under the Lithia Way overpass.  He is willing to contribute $2500 towards the project.

The Commission feels there should be a cohesive plan for that area that encompasses art and it is important to look at the entire environment to find a common “story”.  The PAC suggests Mr. Haines first develop a master plan for the area which incorporates public art.

Wynkoop proposal

Wynkoop proposes a mural painted by John Pugh on the exterior of the beanery.  The Commission expressed interest but requires the Beanery attend a PAC meeting and present a proposal to include: permission of the property owner, funding of the project, subject matter and concept.

Utility Box Update

The original plan was to paint three boxes: one on the Plaza and two on Helman Street.  During the selection process, another property/business owner on Helman Street requested a box on his property be painted and the City has requested a box on Calle Guanajuato be painted.

It is anticipated all five boxes will be finished by September 13.

Selection Process

Bussell expressed the need to fine tune the current selection criteria process for public art.  There was general discussion on the best way to proceed including weighting the various criteria.  The group agreed to work on this prior to the next request for submissions.

Hardesty Memorial

Carol Davis presented a check in the amount of $111 towards the Jack Hardesty memorial.  The funds will be used to build a pedestal for Bluebird Park to hold the sculpture.

Meeting adjourned at 9:30 a.m.