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Cultural Development Board Meeting of June 5, 2018.
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PERSONAL APPEARANCES:
Mr. Emilio Sauma and Mr. Barredo, representing the Gables Hispanic Cultural Foundation, came before the Board as a follow-up and to provide additional information about the proposed Saturday Art Walk on Giralda Avenue. Mr. Sauma stated that about 16 artists would present work on the plaza every Saturday and that large screens would be installed on the plaza as part of the event. Mr. Barredo presented images of proposed artists and artists of similar stature who may be presenting their work as part of the series. The names and number of artists confirmed was not provided; however, the Board was told that a set number of artists would present their work. The Board clarified that the work would be for exhibition and for sale. The Board expressed concern about the program happening every Saturday and viewed it as an outdoor commercial gallery. They also stated concern about how the large screens and sound/music may affect the experience of people on the plaza and impact on businesses.
NEW BUSINESS:
a. AIPP DEVELOPER PROJECT PROPOSAL: GABLES STATION
Ms. Cathers introduced Ms. Castro and Mr. Graham, stating that the developer is here to present a third artwork to be included in their request for a waiver of the art in public places fee for Gables Station mixed use project. Before presenting the new proposal, Ms. Cathers asked if the developers could update the Board on the status of the project of two sculptures proposed by Blessing Hancock.
Mr. Pantin made a motion recommending approval of the Art in Public Places waiver request by the Gables Station development project to incorporate artwork by artist Arturo Berned into the Gables Station as presented and as recommended by the Arts Advisory Panel. Ms. Burgos seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved.*
*This item was approved at the City Commission meeting of July 10, 2018.
b. b. H. GEORGE FINK STUDIO
Ms. Spain gave a brief overview of the City’s recently purchased H. George Fink Studio on Ponce de Leon Boulevard, sharing that it was the architectural studio of George Merrick’s cousin. The City, she said, has two possible tenants: Centro Cultural de España (CCE) and Societa Dante Alighieri. Leonard Roberts with the Economic Development Department, Ms. Spain said, is putting together a committee from five different Boards to review the proposals for an organization which will have it open to the public and for smaller events. Representatives have been asked to participate from the: Historic Preservation Board, Cultural Development Board, Budget Advisory Board, Property Board, and Economic Development Board. Dr. Roth asked for a volunteer to participate on the committee. Ms. Burgos volunteered.
Mr. Pantin made a motion recommending Ms. Burgos to serve on the selection committee of the H. George Fink building. Dr. Mayorga seconded the motion, which was unanimously approved.
CULTURAL GRANTEE REQUESTS, UPDATES, & REVIEWS:
Board members reported on cultural grantee programs they’ve attended. Dr. Mayorga and Ms. Burgos attended the Florida Guitar Association and Seraphic Fire. Dr. Mayorga also attended a concert presented by Kaleidoscope MuseArts. All programs received praise and were noted as well attended.
OLD BUSINESS:
Staff thanked Board members for attending the recent Commission meeting and reported to the Board on the results of the Cultural Development Board resolutions brought before the Commission.
Staff reported that the presentation by Hank Willis Thomas was well received and approved by the Commission. Ms. Cathers stated that a state grant has been submitted for additional support of the project. Additional funds of approximately $200,000, she said, would be required for acquisition of the benches being fabricated. Ms. Cathers also shared that the artist is scheduled to come in September for the final site selection.
Staff reported that the proposal for permanent installation of the Carlos Cruz-Diez crosswalks in front of City Hall was approved by the Commission and is waiting for confirmation from the County regarding installation.
Staff reported that the Cultural Grant updates were also approved by the Commission and that the Biltmore Stage/GableStage item was deferred to include as part of the ongoing discussions with the Biltmore. The Commission, staff said, suggested keeping it as a broad use cultural space and not specific to performance. Ms. Spain noted that the recommendation was sent to the City Attorney and to the Biltmore for consideration.
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
Dr. Roth passed the gavel to Vice-Chair Ms. Burgos, who accepted, to act as chair in her absence over the summer.
The Board discussed upcoming meetings and confirmed that no items requiring action are currently anticipated. With no further discussion, the following motion was made:
A motion was made by Dr. Mayorga not to meet in July and was seconded by Dr. Roth. The motion was unanimously approved.
ITEMS FROM THE SECRETARY:
There were no additional items.