To: Members of the Public Art Commission
From: Maia Aman, Town Liaison
Title
Town Hall Plaza Sculpture: Call for Entries Update
Body
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Executive Summary
Encore, formerly known as Festival Park Commons, was a project to redevelop three lots just south of Town Hall. The project features a seven-story building that will have residential, retail and office space on the west side, adjacent to Wilcox Street, and a parking garage on the east side, adjacent to Perry Street.
The project also included an installation of a public plaza just south of Town Hall. To beautify and enhance the plaza area, Confluence Companies has generously offered $50,000 to purchase a public art sculpture for installation; the Town and therefore the Public Art Commission would be responsible for its future maintenance.
Project Updates
In October, the Commission reviewed a draft call for entries. Suggested changes and additions to the draft were incorporated and staff posted the call and has already began to receive entries. The call was posted to Café, Artwork Archive, Art Opportunities, The Art Guide and Art Show. Staff recommend the Commission consider other posting opportunities or outreach opportunities as deemed appropriate.
A selection committee will attend the December regularly-scheduled meeting to review the submissions and select finalists. The finalists will be invited to attend an in-person presentation at the regularly-scheduled January meeting, where the committee hopes to make a final selection. Staff will then take a recommendation to Town Council in February.
Budget Impact
While the initial purchase of the sculpture will not impact the Public Art Fund, staff recommends that members consider the future maintenance and conservation costs associated with the piece.