HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-11-15 PAC Meeting Agenda Packet RevisedPUBLIC ARTS COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
MEETING AGENDA
Gary Armstrong, Chair Barrett Newkirk, Vice Chair Shawnda Thomas Faveau
Christopher Ramirez Melissa Shelton Tom Burns
Carlos Silveira
Pursuant to Assembly Bill 361, this meeting may be conducted by teleconference. There
will be in-person public access to the meeting location. To join meeting via teleconference,
please use the following link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81194643652?pwd=SHIxMjloK3UyNmpINDdsRkxJaXJtUT09
Meeting ID: 811 9464 3652
Passcode: 006733
Dial by your location: 669 900 6833 US (San Jose); 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma); 346
248 7799 US (Houston); 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC);
312 626 6799 US (Chicago); 929 436 2866 US (New York)
Public comment may also be submitted to jay.virata@palmspringsca.gov. Transmittal
prior to the meeting is required. Any correspondence received during or after the meeting
will be distributed to the Commission and retained for the official record.
A. CALL TO ORDER :
B. ROLL CALL:
C. PRESENTATIONS :
1. The PRIDE Sculpture, by Karen & Tony Barone (Richard N oble)
D. ACCEPTANCE OF AGENDA:
E. PUBLIC COMMENTS: This time has been set aside for members of the public to
address the Public Arts Commission on items of general interest within the subject
matter jurisdiction of the Commission, and agenda items if the member of the
public cannot be present later in the meeting at the time the item is heard by the
Commission. Additionally, members of the public may address the Commission on
Wednesday
November 15, 2023
5:30 PM
Palm Springs City Hall
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Large Conference Room
Public Arts Commission
Meeting Agenda – November 15, 2023
Page 2
each item listed on the posted agenda at the time each item is heard. Although the
Public Arts Commission values your comments, pursuant to the Brown Act, it
generally cannot take any action on items not listed on the posted agenda. Three
(3) minutes are assigned for each speaker.
F. REMARKS FROM THE CHAIR:
G. REMARKS FROM THE VICE CHAIR :
H. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Approval of the minutes from the meetings of July
19, 2023, August 21, 2023, September 20, 2023, and October 18, 2023.
I. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION/APPROVAL :
1. Approve f ormation of an ad hoc committee to meet with the Desert
Highlands Gateway Community to the Richard Wyatt mural.
2. Approve cancellation of the December 20, 2023 meeting and plan for a
Study Session in December 2023.
3. Discuss next steps for Utility Box projects impacted by backup battery
storage boxes installed on top of artwork.
4. Approve Airport mural design .
5. Approve funding in the amount of $4,000 to provide signage for Public Art
projects throughout the City.
J. PROJECT UPDATES:
1. Beautiful Shade
2. Pillars of Palm Springs
3. Art Collection Inventory
4. Asphalt Art
K. REPORT FROM DIRECTOR/STAFF:
ADJOURNMENT: The Public Arts Commission will adjourn to a meeting on
December 20, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in the Large Conference Room of Palm Springs
City Hall located at 3200 E. Tahqutiz Canyon Way.
It is the intention of the City of Palm Springs to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in all respects. If, as an
attendee or a participant at this meeting, or in meetings on a regular basis, you will need special assistance beyond what is normally
provided, the City will attempt to accommodate you in every reasonable manner. Please contact the Office of the City Clerk, (760)
323-8204, at least 72 hours prior to the meeting to inform us of your particular needs and to determine if accommodation is feasible.
Public Arts Commission
Meeting Agenda – November 15, 2023
Page 3
Pursuant to G.C. Section 54957.5(b)(2) the designated office for inspection of records in connection with the meeting
is the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall, 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way (760) 323-8204.
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
I, JAY VIRATA, Community & Economic Development Director for the City of Palm Springs, California,
certify this Agenda was posted at or before 5:00 p.m. on November 9, 2023, as required by established policies and
procedures.
/s/ Jay Virata
___________________
Jay Virata, Director
Community & Economic
Development
Department
PUBLIC ARTS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
July 19, 2023
Palm Springs City Hall
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Large Conference Room
Pursuant to Assembly Bill 361, this meeting was conducted by teleconference and in-
person .
A. CALL TO ORDER:
A regular meeting of the Palm Springs Public Arts Commission was called to order by
Chair Gary Armstrong on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, at 5:30 p.m.
B. ROLL CALL:
Present: Commissioners Melissa Shelton , Tom Burns, Carlos Silveira, Vice Chair Barrett
Newkirk, Chair Gary Armstrong
Not present: Shawnda Faveau and Christopher Ramirez
City Staff: Jay Virata
C. WELCOME TO THE NEW COMMISSIONERS
D. PRESENTATIONS: None
E. ACCEPTANCE OF AGENDA:
MOTION BY VICE CHAIR NEWKIRK TO ACCEPT THE AGENDA , SECONDED
BY CHAIR ARMSTRONG, CARRIED 5-0 TO ACCEPT THE AGENDA
F. PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Paul Henrickson, Upper Westside Neighborhood Organization: Suggestion for the
installation of a memorial and park for Lawrence Crossley on a city lot at the south
end of the Lawrence Crossley organization . A proposal has been shared with the
Human Rights Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, and the Public
Arts Commission.
G. REMARKS FROM THE CHAIR :
Welcome to new Commissioners. The abundance of ideas coupled with the lack
of Commission members recently has been challenging. The diversity of
backgrounds, opinions, personalities and perspectives of this current commission
Public Arts Commission Meeting
Action Summary – July 19, 2023
Page 2
will be beneficial . Commission members are encouraged to ask hard questions
and provide strong opinions. The Commission should workshop together, with
ideas presented to the group for structuring. Review of current programs for
assignment to Commissioners. Moving forward the focus will be on big and
important pieces of artwork, and on managing select community engagement
pieces with inexperienced and non -traditional artists.
H. REMARKS FROM THE VICE CHAIR:
Vice Chair Newkirk offered to continue the maintenance review of artwork, which
he assisted with in 2021.
I. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION/APPROVAL :
1. Request from the Palm Springs Arts Commission for $25,000 grant for the de-
installation and return of the sculpture “History of Suspended Time,” by Gonzalo
Lebrija.
MOTION TO APPROVE MADE BY COMMISIONER BURNS , SECOND BY
COMMISSIONER SILVEIRA, CARRIED 4-0 TO APPROVE GRANT.
[COMMISSONER SHELTON RECUSED HERSELF AT THE BEGINNING OF
THE DISCUSSION OF THIS ITEM].
J. PROJECT UPDATES – Chair Armstrong:
1. Airport Art Update
The Airport Commission is supportive of public art. There are currently two
initiatives: a mural on the concourse, which is in the solicitation phase, and the
re -siting of existing artwork to increase their visibility and to protect them during
renovations. Lengthy approval process for the Airport was outlined, need to plan
for timing. The Airport would like to add more artwork, and a copy of their
renovation plans has been requested.
2. Pillars evaluation and next steps
Plan was approved by City Council in April 2023. Height will be increased to 12,’
per the request of City Council. Landscaping and professional photographs
requested to make the installation a highlight in city promotions. Solicitation
through Procurement for these artworks has received 125 applications, closing
date is July 25, 2023; subsequent review , evaluation , and selection process
outlined. Possible special commission meeting in August to review and announce
selections. Target date for completion and installation is April 15, 2024.
3. Eco-Art
General review and update provided.
Public Arts Commission Meeting
Action Summary – July 19, 2023
Page 3
K. REPORT FROM DIRECTOR/STAFF:
1. City $300,000 Grant for Palm Springs Art Museum Free Thursday Night Program
was approved by City Council. Funds will be provided from the City’s General
Fund.
ADJOURNMENT: The Public Arts Commission will adjourn to a meeting on September
20, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in the Large Conference Room of Palm Springs City Hall located
at 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way.
MOTION BY VICE-CHAIR NEWKIRK, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER
BURNS, CARRIED 6-0 TO ADJOURN at 6:17 PM TO A REGULAR MEETING ON
SEPTEMBER 20, 2023, AT 5:30 PM IN THE LARGE CONFERENCE ROOM OF
CITY HALL LOCATED AT 3200 E. TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/ Jay Virata
______________________________
Jay Virata, Director
Community & Economic Development Department
PUBLIC ARTS COMMISSION SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
August 21, 2023
Palm Springs City Hall
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Large Conference Room
Pursuant to Assembly Bill 361, this meeting was conducted by teleconference and in-
person .
A. CALL TO ORDER:
A special meeting of the Palm Springs Public Arts Commission was called to order by
Chair Armstrong on Wednesday, August 21, 2023, at 5:30 p.m.
B. ROLL CALL:
Present: Chair Gary Armstrong, Vice Chair Barrett Newkirk, Christopher Ramirez, Carlos
Silveira, Tom Burns, Melissa Shelton (arrived at approximately 8:41 minutes)
Not present: Shawnda Faveau
City Staff: Jay Virata
C. ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA:
MOTION BY CHAIR ARMSTRONG TO ACCEPT THE AGENDA , SECOND ED BY
VICE CHAIR NEWKIRK, CARRIED 5-0 TO ACCEPT THE AGENDA
D. PUBLIC COMMENTS: None.
E. REMARKS FROM THE CHAIR: None.
F. REMARKS FROM THE VICE CHAIR: None.
G. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION/APPROVAL :
1. Discussed and reviewed for approval selected Pillars of Palm Springs artworks for
the East Tahquitz Median , for recommendation to the City Council.
Chair Armstrong expressed the gratitude of the Public Arts Commission to all the
talented artists who participated in th is artist call for the Pillars of Palm Springs
project, and noted the specifications required for these submissions. The Public
Arts Commission’s role in this meeting is to formally accept the artworks selected
by the selection committee and to recommend that the selection subsequently be
presented to city council for approval. One of the six proposals – Serenity - needed
minor technical adjustments. For the Equality piece, Commissioner Shelton notes
that the flag the piece represents, does not represent equality for all marginalized
communities. For the Diversity artwork, concern that the meaning of the artwork
Public Arts Commission Special Meeting
Action Summary – August 21, 2023
Page 2
is not clear at first sight and viewers would not have access to any narrative on the
median. Placement and sequence of these artworks on the median have not yet
been determined.
MOTION TO APPROVE MADE BY VICE C HAIR NEWKIRK , SECOND ED BY
COMMISSIONER SILVEIRA , 4 - APPROVE, 2 – ABSTAIN (COMMISIONERS
RAMIREZ AND SHELTON), 1 – ABSENCE, CARRIED TO 4-2 TO APPROVE THE
PILLARS OF PALM SPRINGS ARTWORK SELECTIONS TO PROCEED TO
CITY COUNCIL FOR APPROVAL.
H. PROJECT UPDATES: None.
I. REPORT FROM DIRECTOR/STAFF: None.
ADJOURNMENT: The Public Arts Commission adjourn ed to a meeting on September
20, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in the Large Conference Room of Palm Springs City Hall located
at 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way.
MOTION MADE BY VICE CHAIR NEWKIRK AND SECONDED BY
COMMISSIONER SILVEIRA , CARRIED 6-0 TO ADJOURN at 6:40 PM TO A
REGULAR MEETING ON SEPTEMBER 20, 2023, AT 5:30 PM IN THE LARGE
CONFERENCE ROOM OF CITY HALL LOCATED AT 3200 E. TAHQUITZ
CANYON WAY.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/ Jay Virata
______________________________
Jay Virata, Director
Community & Economic Development Department
PUBLIC ARTS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
September 20, 2023
Palm Springs City Hall
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Large Conference Room
Pursuant to Assembly Bill 361, this meeting was conducted by teleconference and in-
person .
A. CALL TO ORDER:
A regular meeting of the Palm Springs Public Arts Commission was called to order by
Chair Gary Armstrong on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at 5:32 p.m.
B. ROLL CALL:
Present: Commissioners Christopher Ramirez, Melissa Shelton (departed at 6:38 p.m.),
Tom Burns, Shawnda Thomas Faveau , Vice Chair Newkirk, Chair Armstrong
Not present: Carlos Silveira
City Staff: Jay Virata, Anita Fields
C. PRESENTATIONS: None
D. ACCEPTANCE OF AGENDA:
MOTION BY COMMISSIONER RAMIREZ TO ACCEPT THE AGENDA ,
SECOND ED BY COMMISSIONER BURNS, CARRIED 6-0 TO ACCEPT THE
AGENDA
E. PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Phillip K. Smith, III, artist for the Palm Springs AIDS Memorial Sculpture, read a
statement, on behalf of himself and the Palm Springs AIDS Memorial Sculpture
Task Force, to address some recent comments about the AIDS memorial project.
The intent of the memorial, the lengthy review process, which included public
discussion and feedback. The progress of the sculpture’s design was shared with
the public, and feedback was incorporated into the artwork. The sculpture was
subsequently approved two years ago by both the Public Arts Commission and
City Council, and it reflects the memories and emotions of many people. Some
people love the design, but some are offended by it; the artist and Task Force
apologize to those offended by the design. They have been working on new
iterations of the design for several months, which is part of the design process, as
they attempt to move the project forward. The reality of an artwork in the public
realm means that there will be some criticism and assures everyone that all
Public Arts Commission Meeting
Action Summary – September 20, 2023
Page 2
comments are heard. The constructive criticism and respectful discussion are
appreciated.
Cristopher Cichocki, a Palm Springs artist, introduced himself and his art center,
The Elemental, off Vella Road, with an invitation to his opening reception on
November 17, 2023. His work explores the intersection of biodiversity, art, and
science (environmental art), and the center will serve as a bridge for international
artists to the Palm Springs area. He would like to partner with the city on public
art projects and programming. www.cristophersea.com
Richard Noble, resident, here for education on the Pillars project. He would like to
get on the agenda for a presentation at the next meeting.
F. REMARKS FROM THE CHAIR :
Chair Armstrong remarked on the current challenging times, cultural and political
divides in our society, and the ability of the arts to focus on commonalities and
bring people together. The lengthy timeline associated with the creation of public
art, e.g., the AIDS Memorial started in early 2021, must be kept in mind.
Commission members must remain unbiased and respectful of input from the
community; the Commission is a jury, must remain balanced in their decision-
making, and not make comments in a public manner. Many of these projects
reflect the community, people feel it represents them, which makes the selections
more nuanced and is the beauty of being a Public Arts Commission member.
G. REMARKS FROM THE VICE CHAIR:
Vice Chair Newkirk, commenting on the Palm Springs AIDS Memorial Sculpture,
appreciates the artist and task force being open to feedback. He affirms that the
task force proceeded with the best of intentions and elicited a wide range of
feedback throughout the process. He acknowledged the years of work that the
artist and the task force have put into this piece. The Public Arts Commission
supports this project and approved $65,000 to assist with the installation costs.
H. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Minutes from the meetings of April 20, 2022
(amended), May 18, 2022, June 15, 2022 (amended), July 20, 2022 (amended),
September 7, 2022, September 21, 2022 (amended), September 28, 2022, October
19, 2022 (amended), and November 16, 2022 (amended).
MOTION TO APPROVE MADE BY VICE CHAIR NEWKIRK, SECOND BY CHAIR
ARMSTRONG, CARRIED 6-0 TO APPROVE THE MINUTES AS AMENDED.
I. PUBLIC HEARING
1. Consider Resolution No. 23-001 MUR “A RESOLUTION OF THE PUBLIC ARTS
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING
Public Arts Commission Meeting
Action Summary – September 20, 2023
Page 3
AN ART MURAL APPLICATION FOR “WHIMSICAL MID -CENTURY PALM
SPRINGS” FROM CANYON FUND LLC BY FLAT BLACK ART SUPPLY
LOCATED ON THE EAST (PARKING LOT FACING) ELEVATION OF THE
PERIMETER WALL AT 310-320 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE (CASE 23-001
MUR)”
Viewing of proposed artwork and discussion. Applicant Josef Jonathan, Canyon
Fund LLC, participated in the discussion he owns the rights to the artwork and
will be responsible for its maintenance. The owners of the businesses identified
on the map have not received notice of the use of their names and question
raised if th eir permission is required. Suggestions include the addition of some
historical sites, more variety in the landmarks cited, and request that the spelling
for some street names be corrected, the Tram icon should be repositioned, the
map should be dated to reflect the period captured, the use of colors and
materials that work with the environment, direct sun, and request for inclusion of
a larger area (beyond downtown Palm Springs). The vote will be tabled until the
next meeting so Commissioners can review the revised artwork.
MOTION MADE BY COMMISIONER RAMIRIEZ, SECOND BY CHAIR
ARMSTRONG, CARRIED 6-0 TO PROVISIONALLY APPROVE THE MURAL
SUBJECT TO REVIEW OF REVISIONS AT THE NEXT MEETING.
J. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION/APPROVAL :
1. Discuss and approve additional funding in the amount of $20,000 for steel plates
and additional installation costs for Pop Art Park projects (Pinwheel, Popsicles,
and Lawn Chair).
MOTION TO APPROVE MADE BY VICE CHAIR NEWKIRK, SECOND BY
COMMISSIONER SHELTON , CARRIED 6-0 TO APPROVE THE ADDITIONAL
FUINDING OF $20,000 FOR STEEL PLATES AND ADDITIONAL INSTALLATION
COSTS FOR POP ART PARK PROJECTS .
2. Discuss inventory of art – Vice Chair Newkirk noted that the last inventory was
completed in 2016 and that many pieces were excluded; artworks in storage
should be included in the inventory. Chair Armstrong asks that the inventory
include installation methods used and an assessment/audit of needed
maintenance and repairs. Commissioner Faveau will assist Vice Chair Newkirk
with the inventory and report back to the Commission regarding next steps based
on total number of pieces in inventory, repair level, and how they are installed.
3. Park Art Grant program discussion . An evolution of the Art is Everywhere, Art in
the Park After Dark programs, which were $5,000 per park. Council members are
asking for art in the parks, particularly Victoria Park and the James O. Jessie
Community Center. The Park Grant, proposed to be increased to $50,000 per
park, can be used to create healthy and family – living oriented artwork, as a
Public Arts Commission Meeting
Action Summary – September 20, 2023
Page 4
single piece or in multiples. Commissioners are asked to visit the parks, see how
the community utilizes them, and come up with ideas, preferably for artworks that
the community f inds engaging, are more interactive. The initial funding will be for
two parks.
K. PROJECT UPDATES – Chair Armstrong:
1. Airport Mural/Art Relocation – Commissioner Ramiriez is engaging with others,
including the Airport Commission, to identify possible artists, muralists.
2. Pillars of Palm Springs – Chair Armstrong state that the Commission ers’
recommendations will be presented at the council meeting on Tuesday,
September 26, 2023. The artworks were created by a diverse group of artists
with a strong Palm Springs footprint.
3. Eco Art Park / Eco Art Statement – Chair Armstrong. This initiative is a
collaboration with other city departments and it’s in currently in a holding pattern.
Jay Virata is working with the City Manager and others to get approvals from
various agencies, e.g., Riverside County, agency for flood control.
4. James O. Jessie Unity Center Richard Wyatt, Jr. mural restoration –
Commissioner Faveau is working on legal issues concerning the artist and
supervision of artists chosen to restore his artwork. Commissioners are asked to
view the mural. Generally, the city owns artworks once completed.
L. REPORT FROM DIRECTOR/STAFF:
Item I.1 is continued to the October 18, 2023 meeting.
ADJOURNMENT: The Public Arts Commission will adjourn to a meeting on October
18, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in the Large Conference Room of Palm Springs City Hall located
at 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way.
MOTION BY VICE -CHAIR BARRETT, SECONDED BY C HAIR ARMSTRONG,
CARRIED 6-0 TO ADJOURN at 6:50 PM TO A REGULAR MEETING ON
OCTOBER 18, 2023, AT 5:30 PM IN THE LARGE CONFERENCE ROOM OF
CITY HALL LOCATED AT 3200 E. TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/ Jay Virata
______________________________
Jay Virata, Director
Community & Economic Development Department
PUBLIC ARTS COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
October 18, 2023
Palm Springs City Hall
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Large Conference Room
Pursuant to Assembly Bill 361, this meeting was conducted by teleconference and in-
person .
A. CALL TO ORDER:
A regular meeting of the Palm Springs Public Arts Commission was called to order by
Chair Gary Armstrong on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at 5:30 p.m.
B. ROLL CALL:
Present: Commissioners Christopher Ramirez, Melissa Shelton (joined via Zoom at 5:55
p.m.), Tom Burns, Shawnda Thomas Faveau , Vice Chair Newkirk, Chair Armstrong, and
Carlos Silveira
City Staff: Jay Virata, Anita Fields
C. PRESENTATIONS: None
D. ACCEPTANCE OF AGENDA:
Chair Armstrong asked to change the agenda, moving Item #F (Remarks from the Chair)
to before Item #E (Public Comments).
MOTION BY VICE CHAIR NEWKIRK TO ACCEPT THE AGENDA AS AMENDED,
SECOND ED BY COMMISSIONER SILVEIRA, CARRIED 6-0 TO ACCEPT THE
AGENDA AS AMENDED.
F. REMARKS FROM THE CHAIR:
Chair Armstrong states that the commission acknowledges and respects the
concerns expressed by the community regarding the proposed design of the
privately commissioned AIDS Memorial . The commission also acknowledges and
respects the autonomy of private donors in choosing the artist and design that
represents their intentions and vision. The AIDS Memorial is a privately funded
project generously donated to the city by a group of Palm Springs residents who
genuinely care about the cause and received over 400 individual donations from
Palm Springs residents who made this gift possible.
The commission’s role is to ensure that art contributes positively to the city’s
cultural landscape and represents its citizenry; the artist’s sexuality should not be
a determining factor for acceptance of the artwork as artists have the capacity to
Public Arts Commission Meeting
Action Summary – October 18, 2023
Page 2
create pieces that transcend their identities and experiences, and the artist’s
sexual orientation does not diminish the intention or meaning of the memorial. The
city did not commission this piece, and the money is not fungible to another artist
or another task force. The piece is commissioned and designed by a task force of
private citizens, not by a city entity. The previously discussed design will not move
forward; it will not be constructed; it will never exist.
Once the task force shares the new design, the Arts Commission will review , and
approve or deny the piece. There’s no need to notify City Council or rescind money
for installation until there’s an approved artwork; the approved artwork will
determine the needs for installation. There is no action needed by the city at this
time.
E. PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Public comments about the previous design of the AIDS memorial were made.
Several speakers noted the distinction between an art object and a memorial, and
the previous design’s absence of emotion and sensitivity to lives lost from AIDS; it
did not reflect the horror, despair, hopeless, and social rejection suffered in the
early years of the epidemic, or the sense of devastation and loss of survivors.
Concern that the previous design is inappropriate as a memorial, and that it invited
mockery and disdain. The ask was for an open and public dialogue directly with
the memorial’s task force.
G. REMARKS FROM THE VICE CHAIR:
Vice Chair Newkirk: no further comments.
H. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Minutes from the meetings of January 18, 2023,
February 15, 2023, March 15, 2023, April 19, 2023, May 3, 2023, and June 14,
2023; with amendments to correct the spelling of Commissioner Faveau’s name on
the Minutes from October 19, 2022, and November 16, 2022.
MOTION TO APPROVE MADE BY COMMISSIONER RAMIREZ, SECOND BY
VICE CHAIR NEWKIRK, CARRIED 7-0 TO APPROVE THE MINUTES AND
AMEND ED MINUTES.
I. PUBLIC HEARING
1. Consider Resolution No. 23-001 MUR “A RESOLUTION OF THE PUBLIC ARTS
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING
AN ART MURAL APPLICATION FOR “WHIMSICAL MID -CENTURY PALM
SPRINGS” FROM CANYON FUND LLC BY FLAT BLACK ART SUPPLY
LOCATED ON THE EAST (PARKING LOT FACING) ELEVATION OF THE
PERIMETER WALL AT 310-320 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE (CASE 23-001
MUR)”
Public Arts Commission Meeting
Action Summary – October 18, 2023
Page 3
Revisions to the mural have not been completed and this item should be
continued to the November 2023 meeting.
MOTION MADE BY CHAIR ARMSTRONG, SECOND BY C OMMISSIONER
BURNS TO CONTINUE THIS ITEM TO THE NOVEMBER MEETING, CARRIED
7-0 TO APPROVE.
J. ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION/APPROVAL :
1. Discuss inventory of art – Vice Chair Newkirk does not have updates on this
item. Chair Armstrong asked if someone should be hired to complete the
inventory and technical assessment, noting work that needs to be done, and
reporting back to the commission. Discussion regarding the creation of
interactive signage, QR codes, geo-mapping for the artworks that provides a
background for each artwork and guides them to other artworks in the area;
structure and scope should be defined and sent out to bid.
2. Acceptance of gift, the Red Dragon sculpture, from the Old Las Palmas
Neighborhood Association – Vice Chair Barrett provided an overview of the work
and donation. The neighborhood is responsible for the installation, the city is
responsible for its maintenance.
MOTION MADE BY VICE CHAIR BARRETT, SECOND BY COMMISSIONER
FAVEAU, TO ACCEPT THE ARTWORK, RED DRAGON, INTO THE CITY’S
ART COLLECTION, CARRIED 7-0 TO APPROVE.
3. Park Art Grant program – Chair Armstrong mentioned the $50,000 allocated per
park; artwork ideas would be selected with the assistance of the community. They
can be whimsical pieces; they don’t have to focus on social messaging.
Suggestion of large flower sculptures at the James O. Jesse Community Center
area, that could also function as shade structures. Approval of the idea would also
be needed by the Parks Commission, possibly the Human Rights Commission or
Sustainability, etc.
4. New utility equipment impact on Utility Box Project – Chair Armstrong mentioned
that new utility equipment was installed over boxes with existing artwork. The
artists impacted should be contacted; the artwork will remain as is or we will paint
over it. $500 per box to paint. The commission will decide if they want to continue
painting the utility boxes, explore other options, or suspend the project.
Public Arts Commission Meeting
Action Summary – October 18, 2023
Page 4
K. PROJECT UPDATES:
1. Airport Mural/Art Relocation – Commissioner Ramirez sent an internal PSP deck:
there have been 7 mural submissions and a selection of new artists to add to our
roster. The next step would be a presentation to the Airport Commission for
approval. A quick, special meeting of the arts commission could be called to vote
on the selections if they are available before the November 2023 meeting.
2. Pillars of Palm Springs – Chair Armstrong stated that all the artists are good to
go, the Human Rights Commission approves of the project and artworks. The
installation is slated for World Art Day on April 15, 2024, an d the possible
participation of the artists and members of the Human Rights Commission and
Public Arts Commission at the unveiling was discussed. A media plan for the
unveiling is being developed by the City’s Chief Communications Officer.
3. Asphalt Art – Chair Armstrong noted that the funds have been approved and two
locations were identified. Artwork (painted murals) on crosswalks can be split
among more than one artist. The benefit of placing the artworks in high traffic
locations discussed. The community would be involved in the process.
Commissioner Ramirez will spearhead this project. Status of contracts and
contact for requesting repairs to artworks discussed.
L. REPORT FROM DIRECTOR/STAFF:
Jay Virata noted that meeting via ZOOM was a te mporary solution . The city attorney
will confirm the process for transitioning from h ybrid to in -person meetings, possibly
starting in January 2024. Chair Armstrong discussed the scheduling of a study
session for the Commissioners, with an open agenda, to be posted, publicly
accessible, but not recorded; decisions cannot be made, or money spent during th e
session .
ADJOURNMENT: The Public Arts Commission will adjourn to a meeting on November
15, 2023, at 5:30 p.m. in the Large Conference Room of Palm Springs City Hall located
at 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way.
MOTION BY CHAIR ARMSTRONG, SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER
RAMIREZ, CARRIED 7-0 TO ADJOURN at 7:10 PM TO A REGULAR MEETING
ON NOVEMBER 15, 2023, AT 5:30 PM IN THE LARGE CONFERENCE ROOM
OF CITY HALL LOCATED AT 3200 E. TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY.
Respectfully submitted,
/s/ Jay Virata
______________________________
Jay Virata, Director
Community & Economic Development Department