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Coral Gables Arts Advisory Panel Meeting of February 22, 2017.
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Ms. Hall was warmly welcomed to her first Arts Advisory Panel meeting.
PRE-QUALIFIED ARTIST REQUESTS (ACTION):
Ms. Cathers briefly reviewed the process of the Panel’s acceptance of artists to the pre-qualified list. Mr. Stuart added that the process allows the Panel to assess the professional level of the artist; however, it does not commit the Panel to accepting works by the artist and is not an evaluation of qualifications for a particular project. Mr. Stuart also stated that the list is shared with developers who want to consider artist involvement on a project.
The Panel discussed the qualifications of Mr. Sonfist and made the following motion:
Mr. Stuart made a motion to accept Alan Sonfist as a pre-qualified Art in Public Places artist. Mr. Roselione-Valadez seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.
ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PROJECT UPDATES:
Miracle Mile Streetscape
Ms. Cathers reviewed potential dates for the Miracle Mile Streetscape artists to present their initial concept drafts to the Panel. The Panel-as-a-whole agreed to meet at the Historical Resources and Cultural Arts department conference room with approximately one (1) hour per artist to allow for presentation and discussion. Dates will be confirmed with staff.
Jean Ward
Ms. Cathers reported that the sculpture “Tuxedo” will be placed back on site in Pittman Park within the next two months. The concrete pad has been poured and is ready for installation. She further advised that the location for the remaining three artworks is pending a community meeting to address the proposed park design (at Granada Boulevard and Alhambra Circle).
Shops at Merrick Park
Ms. Spain advised the Panel that the sculpture of George Merrick’s head at the Shops at Merrick Park had been removed, and has since been located. Staff is working with the management to have it re-installed on site.
2020 Salzedo Street
Mr. Stuart asked about the progress of the Naomi Fisher piece at 2020 Salzedo St. on the Codina building. Ms. Cathers reported that the piece has been installed and the building is still under construction. The official acceptance and final inspection of the piece will happen when the building is complete, prior to the developer receiving their Certificate of Occupancy.
NOMINATION OF CHAIR AND VICE-CHAIR:
After a brief discussion, the following motion was made:
Mr. Stuart made a motion to nominate Dr. Damian as Chair of the Arts Advisory Panel. Mr. Roselione-Valadez seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.
Mr. Roselione-Valadez made a motion to nominate Mr. Stuart as Vice-Chair of the Arts Advisory Panel. Ms. Hall seconded the motion, which passed unanimously.
ADDITIONAL PANEL BUSINESS:
Ms. Hall asked about the City’s maintenance program, for the public art collection. Ms. Cathers responded that annual funds are set aside for this purpose. A list of pieces requiring maintenance from these funds will be provided to the Panel.
ITEMS FROM THE SECRETARY:
Ms. Cathers shared the sad news of artist Marc Smit’s passing. She stated that his brother was on the public art bike tour, where Mr. Smit’s sculpted bust of Jose Marti was highlighted. Ms. Cathers noted that she had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Smit a few months ago and review in detail the artist’s maintenance requirements of the sculpture, stating that Mr. Smit has taken great care in maintaining the sculpture himself over the years.