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Coral Gables Arts Advisory Panel Meeting of April 24, 2017.
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STREETSCAPE PROJECT OVERVIEW & UPDATE:
Ms. Cathers welcomed the Panel and presented a brief PowerPoint presentation outlining the agenda for the meeting, a review of the program’s Public Art Curatorial Goals, and the Miracle Mile Streetscape Public Art Goals and Technical Criteria. Goals for the meeting were discussed and included a request for the Panel to recommend concepts for further development and recommendation.
MIRACLE MILE STREETSCAPE - ARTIST CONCEPT PRESENTATIONS:
Ball-Nogues Studio, represented by artist Benjamin Ball
Mr. Ball presented two related concepts. He shared his interest in the architectural history and references throughout Coral Gables along with his exploration of what could be a bridge between contemporary design, manufacturing, and the past - spanning further that the origins of the City. Thinking of how the artwork would occupy the space, he expressed that the artwork could have meaning as a gateway or space/place to occupy, turning the center of the crosswalk into a place in its own right. Mr. Ball stated that he noticed a use of amphoras on buildings and pavilions similar to the recurrent theme in Mediterranean references dating back to Greek and Roman times. He noted locations at the Biltmore, Country Club Prado, and more, becoming so common in Mediterranean architecture that the form is almost invisible.
Höweler + Yoon (Meejin Yoon), represented by Eric Höweler
Mr. Höweler introduced himself as the partner of Meejin Yoon and noted that the two work collaboratively on all projects. He referenced the project as art in the public realm, combining with the physical architecture of the City and the behavioral norms promoted through the architecture - not just the objects themselves, but the ambience around them. He continued, stating that public space is unscripted; and design creates a platform for that use. Mr. Höweler showed various public place examples of how people move and arrange themselves in space and also showed previous related works of the artists. Mr. Höweler referenced historic architecture and landscape creating space in response to the interactivity of people.
David Brooks
Mr. Brooks opened his presentation with discussion of previous works that he stated do not conceptually relate; however, perceptually relate to his concepts. He reviewed works demonstrating shifts in how one typically engages with elements of the landscape and included examples of interpretive signage addressing the perception or appearance of something that isn’t, requiring completion by the viewer.
PANEL DISCUSSION AND FEEDBACK:
Ms. Cathers reviewed the goals of the Panel, requesting the Panel make a recommendation regarding each artist along with recommended locations (aligning specific mid-blocks with a specific artist).
ADDITIONAL PANEL BUSINESS:
There was no additional panel business.
ITEMS FROM THE SECRETARY:
There were no items from the Secretary.