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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1986-10-08; Arts Commission; MinutesMINUTES Meeting of: Time of Meeting: Date of Meeting: Place of Meeting: ARTS COMMISSION 3:30 p.m.. October 8, 1986 Library Conference Room COMMISSIONERS CALL TO ORDER; The regular meeting was called to order by Chairman Bear at 3:44 p.m. ROLL CALL; Present - Chairman Bear, Commissioners Brierley, Meilach, and Roston. Absent - Commissioners Bischoff, Frye, and Straub. (Commissioner Frye arrived at 3:47 p.m.) Staff Members Present: Connie Beardsley, Manager of the Cultural Arts Program Cliff Lange, Director of Library Chris Salomone, Community Redevelopment Manager Mayor Casler arrived at 4:25 p.m. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The Arts Commission approved the minutes of September 10, 1986 with the following amendment: Page 3, 2nd paragraph, change the sentence starting "The Commission will be distributing a newsletter..." to further read "and the Boehm Gallery announcements can be carried in that newsletter." Commissioner Frye arrived at 3:47 p.m. INTRODUCTION OF MARY RICE, ARTS EDUCATION COORDINATOR Chairman Bear introduced Mary Rice. Mary Rice, Arts Education Coordinator, distributed copies of a letter informing of the formulation of a committee on the arts in education program. She requested input from the Commissioners as far as potential members of that committee is concerned. Connie Beardsley, Cultural Arts Manager, informed that Ms. Rice will be working closely with Cheryl Ernst in the formation of this committee. Ms. Rice has elementary and secondary teaching credentials which is important in relating to the teachers. Although the program will not be exclusively in the schools, the emphasis will be there. Ms. Rice explained that the function of the committee is to establish goals and objectives for this program. One of the goals would be to involve many people throughout the community as participants in the program. She will work as a liason between artists and teachers offering an important service to the community. Commissioner Brierley was volunteered as a member of the committee. He accepted the position. Bear Brierley Meilach Roston MINUTES October 8, 1986 ARTS COMMISSION Page 2 COMMISSIONERS Commissioner Boston inquired whether a professional director could be involved. Ms. Rice responded that a list of people needs to be developed which can be drawn from. Bringing professional artists into the schools and community is an educational experience. It would show the students that a particular field is really a viable profession. Ms. Rice added that part of her job would be to develop preparatory activities with the teachers for the students prior to the particular professional artist coming in, and to provide follow-up activities. Ms. Beardsley informed that Ms. Rice was selected to fill the position which was budgeted for a part-time staff person on the Cultural Arts Program. The Commission welcomed Ms. Rice on board. MANAGER'S REPORT A. Amphitheatre Connie Beardsley, Cultural Arts Manager, reported that she spoke to Michael Holzmiller, Planning Director, regarding the Sammis Properties' project. This was in relation to the Commission's direction to look into possible facilities for a concert next year. Mr. Holzmiller explained that the reason that both the City Council and the Coastal Commission turned down the project was due to the concerns they had regarding the negative environmental and noise impacts with the project being next to the lagoon. No study has been done evaluating those impacts. However, Sammis has the option of coming before the Council after conducting a study of the area, since the basic problem that the Council had was the lack of adequate information to determine the negative impacts of the area. Ms. Beardsley inquired whether the Commission wanted her to speak to Don Briggs of Sammis advising him of the Commission's interest in having the amphitheatre developed, and having them conduct the necessary studies. Commissioner Frye requested to know the other possible alternatives before making a decision to go forward on this project. Ms. Beardsley informed that another site which had been considered was Hosp Grove. However, the project was turned down, and there appears to be no possibility of that going forward at this time. Another site was Macario Canyon. David Bradstreet, Parks and Recreation Director, informed her that they had explored and rejected that site for the present because of the noise pollution and the lack of access routes. The access routes may not be accomplished for another five to six years down the road. Commissioner Meilach questioned the possibility of setting up a portable amphitheatre in Stagecoach Park. Ms. Beardsley stated that she would have to find out exactly how much of the open space at the park is not already designated. Commissioner Roston pointed out that the park was of a good size and in a good location. MINUTES October 8, 1986 ARTS COMMISSION Page 3 COMMISSIONERS Chairman Bear referred back to the Sammis Properties' project and pointed out that some of the leg work of the amphitheatre had already been undertaken. He thought it would be a good idea for the Commissioners to see what was done and get a general scope of the proposed amphitheatre. B. Evelyn de la Rosa - residency Ms. Beardsley distributed brochures on Ms. de la Rosa and encouraged the Commissioners to post them in various locations. She informed of a change in Ms. de la Rosa's schedule and requested the Commission's input to fill in an open slot on Thursday after 2 p.m. Commissioner Meilach inquired whether the local television was going to tape her. Commissioner Brierley pointed out that the Cultural Arts Center has equipment and could tape Ms. de la Rosa. Ms. Beardsley stated that she would check into this. Ms. Beardsley urged the Commissioners to come to see Ms. de la Rosa's performance. In a brief discussion regarding a possible reception for Ms. de la Rosa, Commissioner Frye agreed to see whether he could get permission to hold the reception on stage at the close of Ms. de la Rosa's performance on October 17 at the Cultural Arts Center. He also volunteered his home if permission is not granted. C. Loaned sculpture by Kenneth Capps Ms. Beardsley informed that Mr. Capps is offering a sculture to the Commission as a temporary exhibit. He can no longer store the sculpture. The only costs involved would be transporting and installing it. She distributed slides and photos of the sculpture and stated that the only logical place would be in a park. Commissioner Meilach added that it could also be situated in an industrial center. Ms. Beardsley informed that the City Attorney has indicated that as long as there is a hold harmless clause in the agreement, there would be no problem. Commissioner Frye expressed his concerns with accepting the sculpture. He stated that the Commission should do the choosing and not be reacting to somebody else's deadline or problem just because of its availability. Commissioner Meilach disagreed, and stated that she could see having a piece of sculpture that is on loan to the Commission as a beginning step to the Arts Program. It would not require any kind of passage by anybody, and it would be getting something on a site. Commissioner Frye explained that the Commission wants to come up with proposals that will work out and prove themselves. He felt that the problem with the first selection process the Commission went through was that the committee members felt rushed because of the deadline. Commissioner Roston added that it will be the Commission's taste that will be on the line. Although the sculpture would be on loan, the public will feel that it is theCommission's taste. MINUTES October 8, 1986 ARTS COMMISSION Page COMMISSIONERS Chairman Bear expressed his concern that the process that the Commission is trying to put in motion to develop the arts program would be diluted if it takes this kind of an opportunity. This would present people with an opportunity to say that the Commission does not need a funded arts program because people are willing to give the Commission works of art for display. He stressed that the Commission does need the funds and a positive selection process. Commissioner Meilach stated that she could see the validity to the argument. However, she felt that the offer should not be rejected, but tabled, until the selection committee comes up with another public work of art. It could be tabled until January and reevaluated at that time. Ms. Beardsley pointed out that she did not feel that the sculpture would be available at that time. Commissioner Meilach stressed that she did not feel that the first process was wrong. She felt that the problem was that everyone was not clear as to who was making the decisions regarding selection of public works of art. Commissioner Frye stated that he felt that the problem was also the deadline. PUBLIC ART DISCUSSION Ms. Beardsley reported that she spoke with Council Member Pettine regarding the Commission's concerns. Council Member Pettine urged that the Commission not be discouraged. He affirmed that although he did deny the previous proposal on the basis of the cost, he could see the validity of the program. He also felt that the following approaches that Ms. Beardsley mentioned were good ideas: (1) competition - select three works of art and let the community make comments on them; and (2) have a functional piece, such as a playground sculpture. Ms. Beardsley assured him that the Council will be informed each step of the way as the Commission moves along on a project to enable the Council Members to make comments. Commissioner Roston referred to the approach regarding the competition and stated that it is very difficult for a whole group of people to agree. She stated that what the Commission needs to establish is how much validity it has as a Commission. She expressed her extreme displeasure if the Commission has to wait for the Council's rubber stamp of approval on everything. Chairman Bear concurred with Commissioner Roston's feelings. Ms. Beardsley stated that she pointed out to Council Members Kulchin and Pettine the Commission's preference of deciding the artistic merits of a particular piece after the Council has given approval for the appropriation of the funds for the piece. However, they were not willing to do that. MINUTES October 8, 1986 ARTS COMMISSION Page 5 COMMISSIONERS The next possibility she (Ms. Beardsley) mentioned was for the Council to approve an early budget for three works of art in various sites. The Commission would then appoint a selection committee for the works of art. Ms. Beardsley stated that Council Member Kulchin felt that this possibility existed later down the road. But, she was not comfortable to follow this process with the first three or so pieces that the Commission will present. Ms. Beardsley pointed out that both Council Members Pettine and Kulchin did not feel that they would be willing to let the Commission make the art selection without it coming before the Council. Commissioner Frye stated that there is the need for a discussion with the City Council on this issue after the November election. He added that he felt that the Council would probably find that they do not want to be involved in art selections. Ms. Beardsley stated that in the interim, the Commission should proceed with selecting sites and appointing selection committees. She stated that she had several proposals and introduced Chris Salomone, Community Redevelopment Manager, to give an update on where he is as far as the downtown redevelopment is concerned. Chris Salomone, Community Redevelopment Manager, addressed the Commission and with the aid of a map, described the location and gave the scope of the project (the second phase of redevelopment in the downtown area). He informed that requests for proposals were sent out with a deadline of October 15 for the selection of a design firm. The firm will consist of engineers, landcapers, architects, etc. He stated that the general feeling has been that this is a great opportunity to do something very special for Carlsbad so that Carlsbad will not look like other cities who have done these projects. The features should be unique and not just orders out of a catalog. Mayor Casler arrived at 4:25 p.m. Mr. Salomone answered various questions from the Commissioners and stated that shortly after the requests for proposals are in (October 15, 1986), they will establish a review committee who will review the proposals and select the design firm. At that time, they will go to the City Council to ask for the funding. Ms. Beardsley pointed out that the options for the Commission are (1) select an artist to be involved with the design firm on the overall design in terms of street furniture, etc.; and (2) select a location for a public work of art. Commissioner Roston inquired whether there was any particular theme that would be used in the redevelopment of the downtown area. Mr. Salomone stated that the only direction is for the features, etc., to be compatible with the downtown area itself. It would probably be something "villagy", and certainly not contemporary or modern. Commissioner Roston suggested the possibility of a Spanish theme. Commissioner Frye suggested that an open contest be held for the selection of several themes to identify each entrance to the City. MINUTES October 8, 1986 ARTS COMMISSION Page 6 COMMISSIONERS Chairman Bear inquired how the artist who would become a permanent member of the design team would be funded. Ms. Beardsley stated that the Commission would have to select several artists and present the proposal to them and inquire how much they would charge. It would then go to the Council for approval of an artist to work with the design team and the allocation of the funds. Commissioner Meilach inquired whether the artist would do only consultant work. Ms. Beardsley stated that the artist, in working with the team on the overall design structure, may come up with his own ideas in the design of the banners, benches, etc., or even recommend the theme. Commissioner Meilach suggested that the person be someone who knows many artists and different kinds of arts - an artist agent; someone who does not have a vested interest in creating the art, but has the talent. Chairman Bear felt that that would be the type of person who would be appropriate to serve as a member of a selection committee. Commissioner Roston pointed out that an artist is not actually needed unless the Commission is going to use their work. Ms. Beardsley pointed out that it would be a good idea to have someone involved with the design team early on. They could identify the area, the potential, and the possibilities for specific areas for art. Chairman Bear suggested that a member of the Commission participate with the design team. In response to various concerns expressed by Chairman Bear regarding the design team which will be selected by the Redevelopment Department, Mr. Salomone stated that artistic talent is part of the expertise that the design team will bring to the job. He further stated that they hope to submit the drawings to the City Council after the first of the year. In the lengthy discussion that ensued, Ms. Beardsley stated that the Commission could check with the Council to see whether they would approve a process, such as a competition, without approving the actual art work. Ms. Beardsley stressed that the public work of art in the redevelopment area could be a major piece of art. She informed that the Redevelopment Department is willing to pay for the materials if the Commission pays for the artist. Commissioner Meilach suggested that the Commission do the following: (1) set up a committee to deal with the new sculpture with only one person from the Arts Commission involved. That way there is a new committee to select a new work of art; (2) go back to the initial service center and reevaluate another piece of sculpture; and (3) get back to the banners that were previously discussed. The banners could be made a school project for the students. The art students could come up with a design and the actual creation of those banners could be done by the home economics classes of the schools. Commissioner Brierley stated that although he has no problems with that and it would be great to have the students involved, there are many agencies everyday soliciting students to do things. Further, the teachers would have to plan this into their schedules. MINUTES October 8, 1986 ARTS COMMISSION Page 7 COMMISSIONERS Commissioner Roston pointed out that Leisure Village has magnificant banners in the main reception room and pointed out that there are places that specialize in flag work. Commissioner Meilach reminded the Commissioners that she already looked into that and it was found to be very costly. Mayor Casler offered to sew the flags once designed. Ms. Beardley pointed out that there is money in the % for art fund that could go towards this project if the Commission so desired. The Commissioners expressed their appreciation to Mayor Casler. Ms. Beardsley informed that the reason she did not recommend that the Commission go back and do another sculpture at the service center was because the City is considering moving the City Hall out on that property. If they decide to do that, that will change the plaza area. That would then be the best time for the Commission to come in with a sculpture proposal. Commissioners Meilach and Roston expressed their desire to include the service center as one of the sites. Commissioner Meilach expressed her displeasure that the safety center was dedicated without a sculpture. Commissioner Meilach suggested that the pieces that were initially brought in for the service center be reevaluated by another committee. Further, that the committee members have the freedom to request that the artist go back and design their proposal. Commissioner Roston suggested that two more sculptors be asked to participate. Further, that the amount of money to be spent on the service center project be reevaluated. Commissioner Frye suggested that future projects not be limited to the $10,000. Commissioner Brierley left the meeting at 4-: 55 p.m. Ms. Beardsley reminded the Commissioners that Stagecoach Park is also a good site for a playground sculpture. Following further discussion, Commissioner Meilach moved that a selection committee associated with the redevelopment area and one associated with the service center be formed. Commissioner Frye added that guidelines stating that there be no deadline or dollar limit to what the committee comes up with should also be established. Ms. Beardsley informed that the usual procedure is for a selection committee to study what artists they want to consider; talk to the artists; and invite them to look at a whole area. They then select the site that interests them and come up with a proposal. The committee then invites the artists they are interested in to bring in models. MINUTES October 8, 1986 ARTS COMMISSION Page 8 COMMISSIONERS Commissioner Meilach referred to the people who signed up at the public open forum and suggested that the Commission contact some of those individuals in the formation of the various committees. She suggested that the committees consist of five members or more of individuals with art backgrounds, and that a deadline be set for the establishment of these committees. Chairman Bear suggested that Ms. Beardsley come back at the next meeting with a list of possible members for these committees. Commissioner Roston suggested Hugh Davies from La dolla and the head of the Arts Department at Mira Costa College as potential committee members. She also suggested that the Commission could contact a design firm to accompany the design firm selected by the Redelopment Department. The Arts Commission approved (1) the establishment of a selection committee to study the feasibility and placement of a work of art in the new planning area for the downtown area and to begin to select the site, the type of work, and a potential list of sculptors; (2) the establishment of a selection committee for the selection of a work of art for the Service Center; (3) the commencement of an open competition for a sculpture for Stagecoach Park; (4) that no dollar limit or time deadline be set on what the committees come up with; and (5) to direct Ms. Beardsley to return at the next meeting with a potential list of committee members (one Commission member will participate on the committees). Chairman Bear suggested, and the Commissioners concurred, that (1) the subcommittee which will interact with the redevelopment people will be loosely structured; they will come back to the Arts Commission with suggestions on how the Arts Commission can incorporate possible art in the redevelopment area; and (2) the committees will be reformulated in 30 days. The Arts Commission directed Ms. Beardsley to come back with a list of potential committee members to oversee the competition for the public art at Stagecoach Park. ADDITIONAL BUSINESS Chairman Bear announced that the next regular meeting of the Arts Commission is set for November 12, 1986. ADJOURNMENT By proper motion, the regular meeting of October 8, 1986 was adjourned at 5:25 p.m. Respectfully submitted, CONNIE BEARDSLEY £) Manager of the Cultural Arts Program Elizabeth Caraballo Minutes Clerk Bear Frye Meilach Roston Bear Frye Meilach Roston X X X X X X X X X X