HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003-08-07; Arts Commission; MinutesMINUTES
Arts Commission
August 7, 2003 • 5:30 p.m. • Carlsbad Council Chambers
Chair Hill called the Meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
Present: Commissioners Hill, Pynes, Francis, and Lignante
Absent: Commissioners Shaw, Rutledge, and Held
New Business
Presentation of Public Art Design Concept for the Coastal Rail Trail
Chair Hill gave a brief explanation of the Coastal Rail Trail project, stating the Committee
wanted the artist's design to be cohesive among the cities involved in the project. He further
explained that the Coastal Rail Trail (CRT) is a linear trail, the Committee wanted to
include aspects from nature in association with the trail, a design that is easy to duplicate
from city to city, and a design that is functional, as the CRT has a walking path, seating, etc.,
depending on the budget. The CRT follows existing bike trails and into the right-of-way of
the Amtrak railway. The CRT project will be constructed in two phases. The first phase
includes the southern city boundary to the Coaster Station and the area between Tamarack
Ave. and Oak. The area between Tamarack and Oak will include the artwork.
Artist Alber de Matteis explained his artwork design concept stating he taking into
consideration the unique setting of the trail in relationship to the coast, the lagoon and the
difficulty with bikers to locate various trail entrances. $33,000 has been allocated to each city
involved in the CRT project for artwork. Alber proposes to incorporate markers to announce
the entrance of the trail. The secondary markers will be composed of cast concrete with
mosaic tiles.
The "plaza" areas of the CRT were already established as standard features of the project,
which contained benches, drinking fountains and trashcans. Alber's plaza area concept
incorporates benches made of cast concrete of different heights designed in relation to die
bluff areas on die city's coast and colored concrete on the plaza floor.
An archway that also indicates an entrance to the CRT has been designed that will include
galvanized powdered steel, cast concrete and mosaic tiles. The archway is 18 feet at the base
and 14 feet tall, with an estimated cost of $45,000 and will be placed at the northern city
boundary. At this time no funding has been appropriated for the archway or the markers.
Alber further explained to the Commission that the priority of the artwork installation
currently focuses on the benches and concrete pad of the plaza. Ten benches are proposed at
a cost of $15,000.
On motion by Commissioner Pynes, the public art design concept for the Coastal Rail Trail
was unanimously accepted and staff was directed to put the concept on display for public
comment.
Acquisitions Committee
Arts Manager Peter Gordon explained to the Commission how the artwork acquisition
process works and the role of the Commission in appointing the Committee.
Chair Hill requested the Commissioners provide the Arts Manager and him with the names
of candidates for this Committee.
On motion by Commissioner Lignante and unanimously accepted by the Commission, this
item was tabled to the September meeting at which time the Commission will appoint
Committee members.
Old Business
Role of the Commission
Arts Manager Peter Gordon gave a report to the Commissioners on the Sculpture Garden
exhibit process. Mr. Gordon also provided the Commission with a written report that
explains permanent versus temporary artwork exhibitions and the Arts Commission's role in
this matter. He further explained that long-term loaned artwork would be put through the
public art process.
Commissioner Francis stated she would like to have a Commission workshop that further
explains the role/responsibilities of the Arts Commission.
It was also requested that staff not facilitate this workshop.
Public Comment
No public comment was given.
Committee Reports
Chair's Report
Chair Hill recognized the article in "The Rotarian" highlighting the works of Commissioner
Lignante. He further reported the Artsplash Committee had met and has funds to begin the
process on Artsplash 2004, which will be held as an art appreciation event, not as a fund-
raising event.
Manager's Report
Arts Manager Peter Gordon reported that Arts Education Coordinator Tonya Rodzach is
now a full time employee. He is currently working on a goal developing a policy for
guidelines for selecting temporary artwork for the City. Another approved goal focuses on
establishing guidelines for sponsorship of performing arts organizations in the Schulman
Auditorium as well as the creation of a collections management plan. The Arts Info line was
recently expanded.
Arts Education Report
Commissioner Pynes reported that Aviara Oaks is holding a fund-raiser to retain its music
program. The Taste Of Carlsbad was once again a success, especially with the kids' art.
Carlsbad Unified School District is still receiving letters asking it to retain its music program.
Public Art Update
Peter Gordon reported the termination of contracts with artists Christopher Lee and Gary
Martin for the artwork design and installation at the Public Works Building. This project
has been put on hold indefinitely. The main entrance gate at Carrillo Ranch, designed by
artist Paul Hobson, has been installed. Carrillo Ranch will open August 16. The public
artwork for Larwin Park was recently approved by City Council. The fabrication and
installation schedule is currently being reviewed.
Commissioner Francis volunteered to serve as the Commission liaison with the Arts
Associates.
The meeting adjourned at 6:27 p.m.