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Cultural Development Board Meeting of May 15, 2018.
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DISCUSSION OF CULTURAL GRANTS:
Dr. Roth opened the discussion and stated that in terms of the application, Board members may forward written comments directly to staff for incorporation into this year’s application.
Ms. Burgos made a motion to eliminate the Cultural Grant Community category; to rename the Cultural Series category to Cultural Programs and revise the definition; to eliminate Festivals as an allowable use of grant funds; and to increase the maximum grant request for Coral Gables Based organization from $10,000 to $15,000. Dr. Alvarez-Perez seconded the motion, which was passed unanimously.*
*This item was approved at the City Commission meeting of May 22, 2018.
DISCUSSION OF BILTMORE STAGE:
Dr. Roth began the discussion by sharing her experience of attending a recent production at GableStage (theater at the Biltmore Hotel), reflecting that it would be a shame if, with GableStage’s departure, Coral Gables would have one live theater left. She added that the City owns the building and would like to recommend that the current theater remain dedicated to non-profit live theater.
Mr. Pantin made a motion recommending sole use of the theater space at the Biltmore Hotel as a live theater or performance venue for a not-for-profit organization. Dr. Alvarez-Perez seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved.*
*This item was presented and deferred at the City Commission meeting of May 22, 2018. It was discussed at the City Commission meeting of June 12, 2018 and filed.
NEW BUSINESS:
There was no new business.
OLD BUSINESS:
The Board was updated on the Venice in the Gables project, stating that the bases were installed in the morning, the posts will be installed the next day, and the opening will be on Friday. Details were provided about the event and sponsors. Staff shared that the City has received numerous calls from artists wanting to be involved after seeing how wonderful the post form is. Ms. Cathers stated that the project exemplified a broad range of styles and artist backgrounds. She went on to share that eight artists worked in the pop-up studio on Miracle Mile, drawing curiosity and interest from pedestrians. Ms. Spain discussed the challenge of engineering and fabricating the concrete bases necessary to hold the posts, commending the great work of Gal Bensaadon with Red Door construction. Further details regarding the number of posts, the commissioning process, and sponsorship were given to the Board, who expressed great enthusiasm for the project.
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
Dr. Roth reminded Board members to speak to Commissioners regarding the cultural grants and asked Board members to attend the Commission meeting in support of the resolutions being prepared, including those for the cultural grants, GablesStage, and Art Basel artist Hank Willis Thomas. Ms. Spain advised the Board that Hank Willis Thomas will be attending the Commission meeting to present his proposal.
ITEMS FROM THE SECRETARY:
There were no additional items.