Title
Arts Advisory Panel Meeting of October 23, 2019.
Body
The Panel did not have a quorum present and therefore did not make any motions.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF MEETING HELD AUGUST 28, 2019:
Item deferred.
PERSONAL APPEARANCES:
There were no personal appearances.
NEW BUSINESS:
a. PRE-QUALIFIED ARTIST REQUEST - JORGE MARIN
The Panel received pre-qualification materials for artist Jorge Marin. Ms. Cathers reported that the developer considering this artist is proposing a high-end Mexican restaurant and is interested in a free-standing sculpture by a Mexican artist to propose as a waiver for the required Art in Public Places fee. She said staff met with the requestor and reviewed opportunities to integrate artwork within the project; however, the architectural design is complete.
OLD BUSINESS:
There was no old business.
ART IN PUBLIC PLACES UPDATES:
a. ART BASEL - RAFAEL BARRIOS
Staff updated the Panel on the installation progress of the Rafael Barrios’ sculpture “Pause” at City Hall and of the exhibition installation of the artist’s work at the Coral Gables Museum. The exhibition was described as a comprehensive overview of Barrios’ work including small and large-scale sculpture, kinetic artworks, mobiles, carpets, etc. Panel members were invited to the Art Basel VIP reception being held on Sunday, December 8th at 8:30 a.m.
b. CARLOS CRUZ-DIEZ
The Panel was informed of plans to have the Cruz-Diez crosswalks painted in time for Art Week.
c. ILLUMINATE CORAL GABLES
Ms. Cathers reported that Illuminate Coral Gables has selected the curatorial/production team of Fung Collaboratives. She said they will be in Coral Gables for a site visit and will make a presentation to the City Commission on November 12th. Panel members were encouraged to attend in support of the project.
d. JEAN WARD
Panel members were advised of the Coral Gables High School decision not to request a loan of the Jean Ward sculptures. The Panel discussed the possibility of placing the sculptures back at the library. Staff gave a brief history of the sculpture acquisitions for new members, their restoration, and current intent to re-install the work. The Panel was also informed of the intent to remove and restore the Jean Ward sculptures currently placed at Ingraham Park.
e. HANK WILLIS THOMAS
Ms. Cathers stated that neighborhood approval for permanent installation of the four Hank Willis Thomas artwork benches is moving forward. She reported on the current Jaycee Park site approval at a neighborhood meeting; the Grand Avenue site presentation to the Lola B. Walker Homeowners Association tonight (October 23); a new location proposed in close proximity to the current location for the bench at the Venetian Pool; and the Miracle Mile site proposal further west on Miracle Mile. Ms. Cathers said the artworks will be removed for restoration and that a small grant was received from the State to promote the project nationally.
CITY COMMISSION ITEMS:
Panel members were advised of the Commission passing resolutions accepting the Tony Cragg artwork for The Plaza development project and passing of the resolution not to accept the John Henry sculpture.
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
The Panel discussed potential Arts Advisory Panel members. Ms. Miyar recommended Sofia LaCayo-Remy who worked with Mary-Anne Martin Fine Art Gallery. Staff will follow-up.
ITEMS FROM THE SECRETARY:
Ms. Spain announced that following her retirement, Ms. Cathers will be Secretary to the Arts Advisory Panel.