To: Members of the Public Art Commission
From: Maia Aman, Town Liaison
Title
Repair and Relocation of Dancing Moon IV
Body
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Executive Summary
Town-owned sculpture Dancing Moon IV needs to be repaired (Attachment A). Due to the extent of damage, original artist Reven Swanson recommended creating a new glass disc and confirmed her ability to create and install it for $500, which falls within the budget approved by the Commission.
After assessing magnesium chloride corrosion on the damaged glass, the artist asked the Commission to consider funding restoration work in 2020, which she stated would cost $200. In January, the Commission approved this restoration work, consisting of cleaning and resealing the base.
The artist has completed the disc and will be able to install it once warmer weather is available. The artist will also complete the restoration work during the installation visit.
The Commission advised staff to inquire as to whether or not the glass disc could be reinforced with plexiglass. The artist confirmed that plexiglass could be installed around the disc, but noted it would likely experience UV damage, which can cause a yellow discoloration overtime. Reven also commented that the iridescent qualities of the plexiglass would visually change the way light interacts with the piece.
Overall, the artist strongly recommended against this option:
Hello Maia,
I saw your request for an estimate. I am dragging my heels on this idea because I am really not in favor of such an idea.
Plexiglass is an inferior product to glass. It yellows and crazes over time. The artwork will not be as visible. The iridescent qualities will not engage with the natural light in the same manner. Plexiglass will “glare” whereas glass absorbs light. If someone wishes to vandalize the sculpture as such, I am not sure the plexiglass will reduce damage.
The expense to replace the glass is not very costly. Two round pieces of plexiglass (1/4”-thick) plus two mounted frames is costly. It also changes the artwork.
If you would like me to continue with the exercise of obtaining an estimate, please confirm it will be time well spent. It will take some time to assemble such an estimate.
Thank you for following up. I appreciate your comments.
Best regards,
Reven
Staff Recommendation
Staff recommend the Commission provide feedback related to the installation of plexiglass to reinforce the disc, in addition to relocation sites. The relocation sites previously discussed or emailed to staff as options are represented in Attachments B-E.
Attachments
Attachment A - Photo of Damage
Attachment B - Rhyolite Park
Attachment C - East Plum Creek Trailhead
Attachment D - Baldwin Park
Attachment E - Columbine Drive and Valley Drive