2018-10-01 Arts Commission Minutesy edmonds
ARTS COMMISSION
MINUTES
October 1, 2018
The Edmonds Arts Commission: dedicated to the arts, an integral part of community life.
City of Edmonds Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services Department
PRESENT:
Tanya Sharp
Lesly Kaplan
Suzy Maloney
Excused: Marni Muir
Pat Oneill STAFF AUDIENCE
Rhonda Soikowski Frances Chapin
Beverly Shaw Starkovich
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM by Lesly Kaplan, Chair
MINUTES — Approval of September minutes postponed to November meeting for lack of quorum to vote on that
meeting; July minutes — Maloney Moved and Shaw Seconded, Approved.
INTRODUCTIONS —Anthony Jansen of Henbart and Dylan Neuwirth and Michael Spear of Western Neon.
REPORTS -
A. Creative Programs
Presentation on Private Development —Anthony Jansen from Henbart gave a brief background on
the real estate development project next to the Bartell's at Westgate which is currently under
construction. He explained that in the City Code there is an opportunity to apply for credits to enable
an extra story in the Westgate location. As part of this process the project dedicated 20% of the lot as
amenity space open to the public and another part of the application included providing a publically
located art installation. According to the requirements "Final selection of art work shall be subject to
review and approval by the City of Edmonds Arts Commission." Chapin explained that this project is
the first to go through this process. Dylan Neuwirth and Michael Spear from Western Neon
presented the proposed design which will be located in the plaza area to the north of the building.
Neuwirth, who has worked with other public art projects, explained that the goal is to create a focal
point, a place of community in the public area, which is evocative of the bounty of the regional
environment. They described the approximately 12' circular form and combination of proposed
materials. Commissioners asked questions about safety, fall zone, illumination, how it relates to
indigenous culture, seating, siting in terms of orientation, and the meeting of public and private
space. The next steps are to take the design to a more detailed level for final consideration by the
Arts Commission.
Arts & Humanities Proclamation Oct 2 — Chapin reported that Kaplan with accept the proclamation
from Mayor Earling and make a few comments about the Economic Impact Study and Creative
District application. Commissioners are invited to attend and stand with her.
Student Representative Position —The Commissioners who served on the interview committee
(Kaplan, Muir, Sharp) summarized that there were four very strong applicants. They were all very
impressive and have tremendous and varied abilities. It was a difficult decision but after extensive
discussion they recommended Isabella W for the position. She was poised, well prepared, and
provided meaningful and succinct answers during the interview. She showed initiative in having
Edmonds Arts Commission Minutes — 10/1/2018
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researched information about EAC programs. Isabella's background as a musician and an organizer
who clearly is willing to engage in hands on activities seemed to be a good fit for the Commission at
this time. Soikowski Moved and Oneill Seconded to Approve the recommendation.
4. WOTS — Kaplan said preparations are all in place, and confirmed how important the participation of
Commissioners is in making it a successful event. Everyone was encouraged to attend the Saturday
reception which is open to the public.
5. Public Art —The Fairbanks On the Fence installation is up at Civic. Commissioners discussed Civic Park
since not everyone can attend the meeting with the designers on Oct 10. Comments included best
use of the NE corner to provide flexible space where small performing arts events might be
presented.
B. Capital Projects
C. Funding & Administration
STAFF REPORT— Chapin reported that she will be attending the Washington Cultural Congress in Ellensburg
following WOTS and the Creative District application will be submitted prior to that.
NEW/OTHER BUSINESS —
AUDIENCE COMMENTS —
Meeting Adjourned at 7:45 PM