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HomeMy WebLinkAbout8/14/2014 - City Arts Commission - Approved Minutes 1 Newport Beach City Arts Commission Meeting Minutes Thursday, August 14, 2014 – 5:00pm City Council Chambers Convened at 5:00 p.m. I. Call Meeting to Order Chair Goldberg called the meeting to order. II. Roll Call Commissioners Present: Rita Goldberg, Chair Arlene Greer, Vice Chair Caroline Logan, Secretary Robert Smith Charles Ware Commissioners Absent: Judy Chang Council Present: Council Member Nancy Gardner Staff Present: Tim Hetherton, Library Services Director Dave Curtis, Library Services Manager Elaine McMillion, Administrative Support Specialist Tara Finnigan, Public Information Officer Patrick Alford, Planning Program Manager III. Public Comments No public comments. IV. Approval Of Minutes Motion made by Vice Chair Greer, seconded by Commissioner Smith, and carried (5-0-0-1) to approve the minutes of July 10, 2014. AYES: Goldberg, Greer, Logan, Smith, Ware NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: Chang V. Current Business No public comments. A. Consent Calendar 1. Correspondence and Press – None. 2. Financial Report – Included in Agenda packet. 3. Cultural Arts Activities – Included in Agenda packet. Motion made by Chair Goldberg and seconded by Vice Chair Greer and carried (5-0-0-1) to approve the Consent Calendar. 2 AYES: Goldberg, Greer, Logan, Smith, Ware NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: Chang B. Items for Review and Possible Action - 1. Designating the Goldenrod Footbridge in CdM as a Historic Site -The City’s Community Development department seeks a recommendation from the City Arts Commission as to whether the Goldenrod Footbridge (a) meets the criteria for selection as historical property and (b) it’s classification as such. Chair Goldberg opened the Item for discussion. Commissioner Ware inquired if the cost for the designation has been defined. Council Member Gardner responded noting that this is just a matter of a plaque; it is simply a City designation so the City may waive any fees if they wish to do so. Commissioner Ware noted he understood there was about a $10,000 dollar cost, or some fees. Council Member Gardner responded it is a City designation so the City may waive these fees if they wish to do so. She also noted the Council staff report evaluated State and Federal designations accounting for the $10,000 amount. Commissioner Ware further inquired if the local designation comes with protection. City Planning Program Manager Patrick Alford responded that it does not; it is more of an honorary designation. Commissioner Ware also inquired how the designation affects the ability to renovate or repair the bridge. Patrick Alford responded that if it was a State or Federal project then there are no real limitations or set restriction. Commissioner Ware further inquired if the original construction documents will be preserved as part of the designation, and asked what the community thinks about the project. Patrick Alford responded that the documents have been digitized and are protected. Council Member Gardner commented this item came about by a request of the residents and the Corona Del Mar Residents Association. Chair Goldberg called for further questions or discussion. Vice Chair Greer commented that the home of Rex Brandt, an artist who designed the City Seal, is adjacent to the bridge and was designated on the historical register in 1992. Vice Chair Greer recommended that the Arts Commission direct staff at the September meeting to provide a report to explore the feasibility of a re-designation, and placement of a plaque or plaques adjacent to the Blue Sky site. 3 Commissioner Logan noted she would support this recommendation for the designation. Chair Goldberg called for a motion. Motion made by Vice Chair Greer, seconded by Secretary Logan, and carried (5-0-0-1) to support staff’s recommendation as presented. AYES: Goldberg, Greer, Logan, Smith, Ware NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: Chang 2. Okazaki Gift - Staff recommends that the Arts Commission accept Sister City Okazaki Japan’s gift of a sculpture. Chair Goldberg opened the Item for discussion or comment. Commissioner Ware commented of the mission of a Sister City and inquired how the installation facilitates those objectives. Chair Goldberg responded that a small plaque, with the gift explanation would normally be installed with the piece. Council Member Gardner noted most items are documented with a plaque that serves as an explanation regarding the origin of the gift. Commissioner Ware noted this is more than a gift from the Sister City. Commissioner Smith noted the base on the diagram seems to have room for a plaque, agreed the Bamboo Court at the Library is an appropriate location, and inquired if the Library Board has been consulted. Chair Goldberg noted the location is not in the recommendation, only the acceptance of the gift itself. Commissioner Ware recommended that a description, storyline and background for this piece be included in order to support the mission of the Sister City’s relationship, to facilitate communication, education, friendship and knowledge. Library Services Director Hetherton noted there is some wording in the report that the Central Library is a proposed site. He noted it is mentioned that this is a complementary piece to the Bamboo Courtyard, which is also a gift from Okazaki and if the gift were accepted, it would go to the Library Board for consideration. Chair Goldberg noted there are also some Japanese sculptures in other City parks, and noted the Library may not be the only placement site, and there may be other options. Vice Chair Greer noted the recommendation could be amended to have concurrence between the City Arts Commission and the Board of Library Trustees. Chair Goldberg noted that the Library Board needs to accept the statue first. Motion made by Vice Chair Greer, seconded by Commissioner Smith, and carried (5-0-0-1) to accept the Okazaki gift recommendation as presented. 4 AYES: Goldberg, Greer, Logan, Smith, Ware NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: Chang 3. 2014-15 Cultural Arts Grants - Staff presents an overview and timeline of the annual Cultural Arts Grant process. Vice Chair Greer, reported on the Cultural Arts Grant process. Chair Goldberg commented that the grant process is a great enhancement to the community and noted the City grants support and offer greater depth and variety. Vice Chair Greer thanked Commissioner Ware for his suggestion that criteria that are more scientific be used in the consideration of the grants. 4. Committee Appointment: Museum Tours Chair Goldberg called for those interested in serving on the Museum Tour Committee. Vice Chair Greer noted her interest and recommended Commissioner Chang to serve on the Museum Tours Ad Hoc Committee. Chair Goldberg noted her approval of the appointments. Commissioner Ware commented that the Grant Ad Hoc Committee was formerly known as the Cultural Arts Ad Hoc Committee, and noted the grants are Cultural Arts grants. Vice Chair Greer responded that the name may possibly be a typo. Chair Goldberg noted that committees are sunsetted after they are complete and the name of the committee may change when the need for that committee comes up again. Secretary Logan noted Commissioner Ware’s comment in reference to whether the grants are just for Cultural Arts or other types of Art. Chair Goldberg commented that whether it is listed or not, it is understood that the grants offered are for Cultural Arts. C. Monthly Reports - 1. Grant Ad Hoc Committee Chair Greer provided a staff report of Cultural Arts Grants. 2. Concert Programming Ad Hoc Committee Chair Goldberg commented that the concerts have been very successful, well attended and thanked the staff for all the hard work. She stated that the Shakespeare event was a big hit, noted that the Southland Opera will be performing, and the last concert will be held on September 7. She also noted the programming has been well received, parking is easy at the Civic Center, restrooms are clean, and easily accessible. 5 3. Newport Beach Sculpture Garden Ad Hoc Committee Commissioner Smith reported that a lot has been happening, and four of the Sculptures have been installed. They are “Big Wet Dog”, “Sphere 112”, “Pretty Boy”, and “Odyssey”. All installations should be complete by next Tuesday, with the exception of “Red” which was vandalized while displayed in New York and is currently being restored. It is expected to be installed in February. Commissioner Smith also noted the formal opening will be September 13th, and the actual formal dedication is at 3:00 p.m. He encouraged the Commissioners to attend and commented that some of the artists will be on hand. In addition to refreshments, there will be art projects at each of the installed sculptures. The Arts Foundation will staff a voting table, and an application will be in place to assist the public with the artists’ description. The event should be a very interactive event. Advance publicity is planned to notify the public, and he is very pleased with how things are coming together, and called for tour volunteers. Chair Goldberg thanked Commissioner Smith for an outstanding job, and noted her planned attendance at the events. 4. Civic Center Art Placement Ad Hoc Committee Secretary Logan provided a report on interior Art placement for the New City Hall. Large High Quality Art is being considered on a loan basis to support the concept of a changing Art system. Very High quality permanent pieces are being considered as well. Chair Goldberg noted that she is excited to see what develops. 5. Arts Master Plan Steering Committee Chair Goldberg reported that Commissioner Michael Magrutsche no longer lives in Newport Beach, and will no longer serve on the Arts Commission. Council Member Gardner noted that a new Commissioner will be appointed, and encouraged those interested to contact the City Clerk. Chair Goldberg noted the Arts Master Plan will be completed by November and would like to appoint Commissioner Logan to replace Commissioner Magrutsche on the Committee. Commissioner Logan responded that she would accept the appointment. Commissioner Ware noted his agreement. Chair Goldberg invited Pat Wayne, Arts Orange County to give an update on the Arts Master Plan Steering Committee. Pat Wayne of Arts Orange County reported they are in the middle of their process. They have interviewed City Leaders and those of importance and the next phase will be six (6) focus groups of twelve (12) to fifteen (15) people each, dealing with a different sector. There will be a teen focus sector, arts education sector, City staff sector, a creative business sector, an arts organization sector, and organizations within certain proximity of Newport Beach that have substantial resources will be asked to come in as partners. The public forum date has changed; they are right on track, and looking to align with the general plan of the City. Chair Goldberg called for comments or questions. 6 Commissioner Ware inquired what the public communication component of this is as information is collected separate from the individuals and groups. Pat Wayne noted responses are being kept confidential, and in September, in addition to the public forum they will be utilizing public networks to publicize the survey. Chair Goldberg noted she is looking forward to see what develops. 6. Arts Foundation Liaison Ad Hoc Committee Commissioner Smith reported that his wife Carmen Smith is the new President of the Foundation. He stated they are looking forward to their October 11th event, noting there will not be an August meeting and that they will staff a table at the September 13th event. The Friends and the Arts Foundation will have a table at the event, the Orange County Museum of Art will as well. They are attempting to make this an event to focus on the Arts and Culture in the community. 7. Juried Art Exhibition Ad Hoc Committee Vice Chair Greer reported this year’s event was a great success, and it has grown from 60 Artists and 120 works of art to 135 Artists and 262 works of art. Artists and the public had a great time. Attendance increased; there was more outreach, more art available, and Artists in attendance. She thanked the City Council, staff, residents, Artists, Mayor Pro Tem Selich, and noted the winners were listed on the City web site. She thanked the Pacific Symphony Youth Ensembles, Newport Beach Art Foundation board, National Charity League Assistance, 24 Carrots, Bellagio Florist, Janis Dinwiddie, Tim Hetherton, Katherine Mielke, and staff, commissioners Goldberg, Smith, Logan, Ware, and co-chairs Chang, and Magrutsche. She noted they look forward to a great event next year. Chair Goldberg thanked Vice Chair Greer for all of her hard work. 8. Fine Arts Ad Hoc Committee Vice Chair Greer reported the “Strombotne” exhibit has been taken down. The next exhibit will be the 10 Elizabeth Wiltrout Longridge watercolors that are part of the City’s collection. Michaell Magrutsche, the Rex Brandt Centennial Celebration collection, Richard Bohn, Agnes Schenk, Richard Dupree Lonsdale-Hands and then perhaps Raymond Otis will follow. Outreach is being planned for to urge local artists to exhibit their art. Council Member Gardner noted Richard Shaw’s and Virgil Partch’s art and an opportunity for future exhibits of their work. Chair Greer noted available spots in the display cases at the Central Library and asked Commissioner Logan if she would coordinate the display of Sister City Okazaki mementos. Chair Greer asked to have the following item added to the upcoming agenda. She requested City staff to do research and provide a qualified consultant to assist with the representation and exhibition of the Art in the City. Vice Chair Greer reported on the Rex Brandt Centennial Celebration. She reported the event will be held in the Friends Meeting Room on Saturday, November 1st, consisting of a brief lecture, tutorial, and an exhibition of Rex Brandt paintings. The Brandt family and friends will be invited. The City Arts Commission will celebrate Rex Brandt’s civic and artistic contribution to the City, and is a public 7 event, provided by the City of Newport Beach Arts Commission with an exhibition from November 1st through December 15th. Commissioner Logan commented on Rex Brandt’s notebooks and asked for their inclusion in the display cases at the Central Library during that time. 9. Art Owned by the City of Newport Beach Ad Hoc Committee Vice Chair Greer reported that the City art inventory has been evaluated, art of low importance has been slated for de-accession and will be noted in the City inventory and will be considered surplus property. This project will begin next week. Chair Goldberg noted bringing this task to resolution has been a time consuming task, and thanked the staff. VI. City Arts Commission Announcements or Matters Which Members Would Like Placed on a Future Agenda for Discussion, Action or Report (Non-Discussion Item) Chair Goldberg called for items to be placed on a future agenda for discussion. Vice Chair Greer asked that the Rex Brandt plaque designation be added to the September meeting agenda. Secretary Logan requested adding the Ben Carlson memorial statue presentation. Vice Chair Greer requested that an agenda item for potential arts consultants to display indoor and outdoor art be added. Council Member Gardner noted that the Balboa Theater will be taken over by the City and will become the Balboa Fine Arts Center and recommended that the Commissioners be thinking about this venue for possible display of City art. Commissioner Ware inquired as to the process for deciding the options for this venue. Council Member Gardner responded it is premature, and consideration will be worth discussion. Secretary Logan expressed her excitement for the potential for this venue. Commissioner Ware asked if performing arts would be excluded. Council Member Gardner noted it was to be a performing arts venue, but the focus will be on fine arts display and not necessarily performing arts. Vice Chair Greer thanked Council Member Gardner for providing the contact for former City Manager Bob Shelton, and former Mayor Don Webb for the information provided for the Rex Brandt Celebration. VII. Public Comments on Non-Agenda Items – Chair Goldberg opened the public comments. 8 Josh Yocam, friend of Ben Carlson and Jake Janz, Ben’s brother-in-law spoke on the plans for the Ben Carlson Memorial and Scholarship foundation. Chair Goldberg noted that Ben Carlson is a true hero and that this would need to be funded, and that whatever is decided upon and presented is of high caliber and to keep in mind that the piece must be an original art piece. Council Member Gardner noted this is public comment opportunity, and the proper follow through would be to add this item to the next meeting agenda. Josh Yocam requested to be added to the next agenda, and Jake Janz distributed some information to the Commission. Commissioner Ware asked that the item include a broader vision to promote ocean safety and awareness. Chair Goldberg noted that this item would be a presentation to the Commission and be under more than the City Arts Commission’s jurisdiction. Motion made by Secretary Logan and seconded by Commissioner Smith and carried (5-0-0-1) to place the Ben Carlson Memorial Statue presentation on the September 11, 2014 City Arts Commission Meeting agenda. AYES: Goldberg, Greer, Logan, Smith, Ware NOES: None ABSTENTIONS: None ABSENT: Chang Chair Goldberg asked for additional public comments. Jim Mosher commented on the sculpture that is a gift from the Sister City of Okazaki. He inquired if it is the practice of the City to put up statues of political figures, and noted that the placement of the statue in the Bamboo Courtyard contradicts the concept of the courtyard as a peaceful tranquil area, and that the City Arts Commission take this into consideration. Tim Hetherton, Library Services Director read a letter of commendation for the Civic Center Sculpture Exhibition to the City Arts Commission from the Newport Beach Arts Foundation. Noting no others who wished to comment, Chair Goldberg closed public comments. VIII. Adjournment – 6:16 p.m. Submitted by: Rita Goldberg Chair Approval of Minutes