HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-22-2023 Public Art Commission Agenda PacketSaratoga Public Art Commission Agenda – May 22, 2023
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SARATOGA
PUBLIC ART COMMISSION
May 22, 2023
6:30 P.M. REGULAR MEETING
Saratoga City Hall, Linda Callon Conference Room · 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga CA 95070
Public Participation Information
In accordance with Saratoga City Council’s Remote Public Participation Policy, the public may
participate in person at the location listed above on the agenda or via the Zoom platform using the
information below.
• Webinar URL: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86239971131
• Webinar ID: 862 3997 1131
• Call In: 1.408.638.0968 or 1.669.900.6833 (enter the Webinar ID provided above when
prompted)
Written Communications
Comments can be submitted in writing at www.saratoga.ca.us/publicart. Written communications
received prior the end of the comment period will be provided to the Commission and included in
the agenda packet and/or supplemental meeting materials.
Public Comment
Members of the public may comment on any item for up to three (3) minutes. The amount of time
for public comment may be reduced. Public Comment will begin with speakers attending in -person
first followed by those attending via Zoom.
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
Any member of the public may address the Public Art Commission for up to three (3) minutes
on matters not on the Agenda. The law generally prohibits the Commission from discussing
or taking action on such items. However, the Commission may schedule the item for
discussion at a future meeting.
AGENDA ITEMS:
1. Public Art Commission Minutes
Recommended Action:
Review and approve the minutes from the January 23, 2023 meeting.
Draft Minutes
Saratoga Public Art Commission Agenda – May 22, 2023
Page 2 of 2
2. Paint the City Artwork Recommendation
Recommended Action:
Recommend City Council approval of artwork that received the most votes during
community voting on Paint the City conceptual artwork.
Memo
3. Fiscal Year 2023/24 Work Plan
Recommended Action:
Receive update on the City Council approved Fiscal Year 2023/24 Work Plan and
consider changes to work plan subcommittee assignments as well as implementation
timelines.
Memo
4. Chalk Art and #SaratogaROCKS
Recommended Action:
Discuss opportunities to host chalk art or #SaratogaROCKS activities at upcoming
community events. Upcoming events include: Saratoga Summer Movie Nights (June
16, July 21, and August 18). Discuss opportunities for Commissioners to deliver rock
painting kits to local organizations.
5. Future Agenda items
Recommended Action:
Consider agenda items for upcoming meetings. The next regular meeting is on July
17, 2023 at 6:30 p.m. at Saratoga City Hall in the Linda Callon Conference Room.
Agenda Planner
ADJOURNMENT
CERTIFICATE OF POSTING OF THE AGENDA, DISTRIBUTION OF AGENDA PACKET, &
COMPLIANCE WITH AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
I, Crystal Bothelio, Consultant for the City of Saratoga, declare that the foregoing agenda for the meeting of the
Public Art Commission was posted and available for review on May 18, 2023 at the City of Saratoga, 13777
Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, California and on the City's website at www.saratoga.ca.us
Signed this 18th day of May 2023 at Saratoga, California.
Crystal Bothelio, Consultant
In accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act, copies of the staff repor ts and other materials provided to the
Commission by City staff in connection with this agenda, copies of materials distributed to the Commission
concurrently with the posting of the agenda, and materials distributed to the Commission by staff after the
posting of the agenda are available on the City website at www.saratoga.ca.us and are available for review in the
office of the City Clerk at 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, Califo rnia.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Governor’s Executive Order, if you need assistance
to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk at bavrit@saratoga.ca.us or calling 408.868.1216 as
soon as possible before the meeting. The City will use its best efforts to provide reasonable accommodations to
provide as much accessibility as possible while also maintaining public safety. [28 CFR 35.102-35.104 ADA title II]
Saratoga Public Art Commission Minutes
January 23, 2023 – Page 1 of 5
MINUTES
SARATOGA PUBLIC ART COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
JANUARY 23, 2023
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Ramya Vasu called the meeting to order at 6:32 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present: Chair Ramya Vasu, Vice Chair Gloria Wu, Commissioner James Cai,
Sohini Kar, Siana Smith
Absent: None
Also Present: James Lindsay, Crystal Bothelio, Kelly Sicat
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
None
AGENDA ITEMS:
1. Public Art Commission Minutes
Recommended Action:
Review and approve the minutes from the November 21, 2022 meeting.
VASU/WU MOVED TO APPROVE THE MINUTES FROM THE NOVEMBER 21, 2022
MEETING. MOTION PASSED. AYES: CAI, KAR, SMITH, VASU, WU. NOES: NONE.
ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT: NONE.
2. Montalvo Arts Center Collaboration
Recommended Action:
Discuss opportunities to collaborate with Montalvo Arts Center and, if desired, make
a motion to schedule specific collaboration ideas for further discussion at a future
Commission meeting.
Chair Ramya Vasu welcomed Kelly Sicat with Montalvo Arts Center.
Kelly Sicat, Director of the Lucas Artists Residency Program at Montalvo Arts Center,
introduced herself and provided information about the residency program. She also
provided information about Montalvo Arts Center as well as current and upcoming
efforts and priorities.
Commissioner Siana Smith commented on the importance of the Montalvo Arts
Center to the Saratoga community and broader region. She inquired about the
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Saratoga Public Art Commission Minutes
January 23, 2023 – Page 2 of 5
possibility of hosting a Saratoga artist as part of the residency, bringing outside artists
to Saratoga for things such as a plein air art activity or festival, exhibition of artwork,
and hosting an artist residency in partnership with the City.
Kelly Sicat provided information about Montalvo’s limited indoor exhibit space, but
commented on opportunities for an outdoor exhibition on the grounds of Montalvo
Arts Center. She mentioned the 20th anniversary of the Artist in Residency program
and the possibility of including an exhibit showcasing the art of residents as part of
that effort. She also expressed interest in a plein art event, noting that there is a large,
successful plein art festival in Los Gatos. Kelly indicated that collaborating with the
City on a sculpture and artist residency are also possibilities. She also indicated that
Montalvo could help advise City efforts to commission a piece of work.
Vice Chair Gloria Wu elaborated on interest in a plein art event, sharing her
experience at the plein art festival hosted in Carmel.
Kelly Sicat mentioned that West Valley College may also be interested in collaborating
in a plein art event, noting that scheduling events at Montalvo Arts Center during the
summer can be challenging.
Commissioner Siana Smith proposed that a plein air event could piggyback on
another existing event, such as the Saratoga Rotary Art Show.
Chair Ramya Smith contemplated whether a subcommittee on Montalvo Arts Center
should be formed.
Kelly Sicat invited the Commission to visit Montalvo and walk the property.
Chair Ramya Vasu invited Kelly to stay for the rest of the Commission’s meeting.
3. Fiscal Year 2023/24 Work Plan
Recommended Action:
Finalize the proposed 2023/24 Work Plan and make a motion to recommend City
Council approval of the proposed work plan. If additional time is needed to finalize
the work plan, the March regular meeting can be rescheduled and/or a special
meeting can be scheduled.
Crystal Bothelio provided a report on the 2023/24 Work Plan.
Chair Ramya Vasu provided additional information about the proposal to remove the
State Route 85 & Union Pacific Overpass Artwork project and Sculpture Project with a
Living Sculpture Project, noting that the subcommittee concluded that the State Route
85 & Union Pacific Overpass Artwork would not be feasible and had preliminary
discussions with the Public Works Director about options for a living sculpture
consisting of plants and other materials, such as metal, glass, or mirror, to be installed
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Saratoga Public Art Commission Minutes
January 23, 2023 – Page 3 of 5
in a City median, park, or other appropriate location. The Public Works Director
affirmed the project is feasible and the committee agreed to recommend that the
Commission focus on this project in the upcoming fiscal year.
Commissioner Siana Smith added some of the committee’s initial ideas about options
for the living sculpture, such as use of iron, scrap metal, glass, or mirrors. Other initial
ideas included involving the community in the project in some way.
Kelly Sicat commented that the concept seemed promising.
Commissioner James Cai commented on the benefits of preparing a request for
proposals and sharing it nationwide.
Vice Chair Gloria Wu commented on the environmental impacts of the plant selection,
creating a piece that is both artistic and conscious of the environment.
Chair Ramya Vasu expressed a desire to continue working with Montalvo Arts Center
on the project.
Commissioner Sohini Kar asked who would be responsible for maintaining the
project.
Chair Ramya Vasu explained that based on initial discussions with the Public Works
Director it would be the City’s responsibility to maintain.
Chair Ramya Vasu also requested that the work plan include a cultural performance
event. She described her vision for the event, noting that it would be open to anyone
who wanted to do a cultural performance as opposed to a competition. She added
that any category of performance art would be allowed.
VASU/CAI MOVED TO RECOMMEND COUNCIL APPROVAL THE FISCAL YEAR 2022/23
PUBLIC ART COMMISSION WORK PLAN, INCLUDING REMOVAL OF THE STATE
ROUTE 85 & UNION PACIFIC OVERPASS ARTWORK PROJECT, REPLACEMENT OF
THE SCULPTURE PROJECT WITH THE LIVING SCULPTURE, AND ADDITION OF A
CULTURAL PERFORMING ARTS EVENT. MOTION PASSED. AYES: CAI, KAR, SMITH,
VASU, WU. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT: NONE.
Kelly Sicat provided additional information about Montalvo Arts Center’s experience
with project ion art events. She also suggested a collaborative effort involving West
Valley College, Saratoga Library, the City, and Montalvo Arts Center, perhaps in
connection with the 25th anniversary of Montalvo Arts Center next year.
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Saratoga Public Art Commission Minutes
January 23, 2023 – Page 4 of 5
4. Committee Assignments
Recommended Action:
Review subcommittee assignments and, if desired, make a motion to appoint or
reassign Commissioners to subcommittees based on the proposed Fiscal Year
2023/24 Work Plan. No more than 2 Commissioners may be assigned to a
subcommittee.
Chair Ramya Vasu and Commissioner Siana Smith expressed a desire to be part of
the Living Sculpture subcommittee.
Vice Chair Gloria Wu suggested that the timeline for projection art could be revised
to coincide with the Montalvo Arts Center 25th anniversary in 2025. Commissioner
Sohini Kar concurred.
VASU/CAI MOVED TO ASSIGN RAMYA VASU AND SIANA SMITH TO THE LIVING
SCULPTURE PROJECT SUBCOMMITTEE. MOTION PASSED. AYES: CAI, KAR, SMITH,
VASU, WU. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT: NONE.
VASU/WU MOVED TO ASSIGN RAMYA VASU TO THE CULTURAL PERFORMING ARTS
PROJECT SUBCOMMITTEE. MOTION PASSED. AYES: CAI, KAR, SMITH, VASU, WU.
NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT: NONE.
5. Committee Updates (Informational Only)
Recommended Action:
The Commission formed several subcommittees that meet outside of the
Commission’s regular meetings to develop recommendations and work towards
implementing the Commissions ambitious work plan. This agenda item provides a
time for those committees and/or staff to provide an update on recent efforts. This
item is informational only.
Chair Ramya Vasu provided an update on the Saratoga Loves Poetry subcommittee.
She explained that the winners were announced at the Tree Lighting Ceremony. All
but one of the winning artists attended and received their prize at the event.
6. Chalk Art and #SaratogaROCKS
Recommended Action:
Discuss opportunities to host chalk art or #SaratogaROCKS activities at upcoming
community events. Upcoming events include: St. Paddy’s Day (March), Blossom
Festival (March or April), Arbor Day (April). Discuss opportunities for Commissioners
to deliver rock painting kits to local organizations.
The Commission discussed whether to host an activity at St. Paddy’s Day, Blossom
Festival, and Arbor Day. No commitments were made.
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Saratoga Public Art Commission Minutes
January 23, 2023 – Page 5 of 5
7. Future Agenda items
Recommended Action:
Consider agenda items for upcoming meetings. The next regular meeting is on March
20, 2023 6:30 p.m.
The Commission reviewed the agenda planner and requeste d no changes to
upcoming March 20, 2023 agenda items.
ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Ramya Vasu adjourned the meeting at 8:00 p.m.
Minutes respectfully submitted:
Crystal Bothelio
7
CITY OF SARATOGA
Memorandum
To: Public Art Commission, Paint the City Subcommittee
From: Crystal Bothelio
Date: May 22, 2023
Subject: Paint the City Artwork Recommendations
The Paint the City Subcommittee Committee met on March 15, 2023 to review Paint
the City applications and made top 3 design selections for each of the Paint the City
locations. A total of 15 qualified applications were received.
In April, the community was invited to pick their favorite Paint the City designs among
the top 3 selections at each location. The highest ranked designs at each location
based on resident voting are shown on the following pages. Now that public voting
is complete, the next step in the process is for the Commission to recommend City
Council acceptance of the highest ranked artwork. Depending on the time needed
for State approval of the final artwork, painting may occur between June and
September 2023.
Timing Milestone
February 1, 2023 City Council Approval of Paint the City Locations
February 2023 Application Period
March 15, 2023 Subcommittee Selection of Top 3 Designs
March – April 2023 Public Voting
May 15, 2023 Commission Recommendation on Artwork
June 7, 2023 Council Acceptance of Artwork
June – September 2023 Painting
8
92
25
118
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
Option 1 – Chloe Tang Option 2 – Nupur Hiremath Option 3 – Yaxin Deng & Ling Fang
Location 1: Saratoga Avenue at State Route 85 North
9
44
65
131
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
Option 1 – Cynthia Smith Wolfe Option 2 – Natalie Poon & Jane Lee Option 3 – Sunny Huang
Location 2: Saratoga Avenue at State Route 85 South
10
76
130
33
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
Option 1 – Amy Pan Option 2 – Isabelle Wang Option 3 – Stephanie Hayes
Location 3: Saratoga Avenue at Dagmar Drive
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CITY OF SARATOGA
Memorandum
To: Public Art Commission
From: Crystal Bothelio
Date: May 22, 2023
Subject: Fiscal Year 2023/24 Work Plan
At the Commission Work Plan Study Session on March 27, the City Council reviewed
and approved the Public Art Commission’s Fiscal Year 2023/24 Work Plan. As part of
the Council’s adoption of the work plan, several changes were made. Consequently,
the work plan has been included as part of the Commission’s May meeting agenda
to provide the Commission with the opportunity to revisit subcommittee
assignments as well as implementation timelines.
The final approved work plan is attached, including current committee assignments
and proposed implementation timelines.
12
FISCAL YEAR 2023/24 WORK PLAN
1. Projection Art
Explore opportunities for projection art and return to City Council with a proposal for
consideration, including possible themes, locations, community participation, frequency,
and timing. For example, students could be invited to submit artwork (written, visual,
and/or performing) to be projected at night in the City.
Committee Members:
• Sohini Kar
• Gloria Wu
Proposed Implementation Timeline:
• June – August 2023: Display of recent art submissions (Saratoga Loves Poetry, Online
Art Challenge, Paint the City, #SaratogaROCKS) at Saratoga Summer Movie Night
events.
• January – March 2024: Subcommittee to develop a recommendation
• March 18, 2024: Commission consideration of committee recommendation
• April 2024: City Council consideration/approval of Commission recommendation, if
needed
2. Artwork Exhibit Opportunities
Identify non-traditional exhibit locations in the City where there is an opportunity to
temporarily display artwork at or in public spaces, including spaces managed/maintained
by community partners. For example, locations could include City buildings and
properties, Saratoga Library, schools, or West Valley College. Ask staff to assess feasibility
of displaying artwork at those locations. Present proposal for exhibit, including art
selection and locations. Artwork that is displayed could be developed throug h other work
plan items, such as projection art or the online art challenge, or through collaboration
with community partners. With Council’s approval, implement proposed plan and seek
Council authorization prior to placement of any artwork proposed for Ci ty property.
Committee Members:
• Siana Smith
• Gloria Wu
Proposed Implementation Timeline:
• September - November 2023: Subcommittee to develop recommended artwork
exhibit opportunities
• November 20, 2023: Commission consideration of committee recommendation
• December 2023: City Council consideration/approval of Commission
recommendation, if needed
13
3. Saratoga Loves Poetry
Invite students at schools located in Saratoga to submit original poetry for the chance to
win a prize, to be showcased in a variety of ways , such as through City online
communication channels, through a temporary display, requesting publication in local
newspapers, and/or at special events and activities, including as part of other work plan
efforts, such as projection art. Explore options to collaborate with Saratoga Library as
part of their annual contest or a new contest. In addition or as an alternative, consider
options to include residents of all ages in 1 contest per year.
Committee Members:
• Ramya Vasu
Proposed Implementation Timeline:
• May - July 2023: Subcommittee to develop a recommended program
• July 17, 2023: Commission consideration of committee recommendation
• August – September 2023: Outreach, registration, and submittal period for student
contest
• October 2023: Selection of student contest winners
• November – December 2023: Announcement of winners and showcase of poems
4. Paint the City
Continue the Paint the City utility box painting program starting in fall/winter 2022 and
consider the addition of non-City owned utility boxes. Once locations are identified and
authorized by the City Council, residents age 10 and older would be invited t o submit
conceptual artwork for utility box locations. The Public Art Commission would then
review conceptual artwork and select up to 3 options per location. The top 3 selections
would be posted online for public voting where residents can engage in the p rocess by
selecting their favorite conceptual design per location. After the close of voting, the
Commission would make a recommendation on artwork to the City Council. Selected
artists receive a stipend of $600.
Committee Members:
• James Cai
• Ramya Vasu
Proposed Implementation Timeline:
• July – September 2023: Subcommittee to develop a recommended program
• September 18, 2023: Commission consideration of committee recommendation
• November 2023: Council consideration of Commission recommendation
• December 2023 – January 2024: Application period
• January 2024: Subcommittee to develop recommended Top 3 selections for each
location
• January 15, 2024: Commission consideration of committee recommendation
• January – February 2024: Public voting
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• March 18, 2024: Results of public voting and Commission recommendation on final
artwork
• April 2024: City Council consideration/approval of Commission recommendation
• April – May 2024: Utility box painting completed
5. #SaratogaROCKS
Continue to encourage participation in the City of Saratoga’s #SaratogaROCKS program,
which provides free rock painting kits to community members, and explore ways to
enhance the program, increase participation, and make more appealing to community
members. Conduct strategic outreach, such as providing kits to local retirement
communities or hosting rock painting at local events. Document use of kits through
photos or video.
Implementation:
At every regular meeting, discuss opportunities for Commissioners to attend upcoming
community events and host #SaratogaROCKS or share kits with local organizations.
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City of Saratoga
Public Art Commission
MEMBERSHIP
NAME TERM END
James Cai 9/30/2023
Ramya Vasu, Chair 9/30/2024
Sohini Kar 9/30/2025
Siana Smith 9/30/2025
Gloria Wu, Vice Chair 9/30/2026
Staff:
Crystal Bothelio, City of Saratoga | 408.868.1269 | cbothelio@saratoga.ca.us
AGENDA PLANNER
The Commission holds regular meetings on the 3rd Monday of odd-numbered months at
6:30 p.m. Regular meetings may be rescheduled or canceled. Additionally, schedule special
meetings may be scheduled as needed.
MEETING AGENDA ITEMS
January 23, 2023 • Minutes
• Montalvo Arts Center Collaboration: Discuss
mutual areas of interest for collaboration between
City and Montalvo. If possible, develop
recommendation for Council.
• Fiscal Year 2023/24 Work Plan
• Committee Assignments
• Committee Updates
• Chalk Art OR #SaratogaROCKS
• Future Agenda Items
March 20, 2023 • Minutes
• Paint the City: Make Top 3 Selections at each
location for public voting.
• Fiscal Year 2023/24 Work Plan
• Chalk Art OR #SaratogaROCKS
• Future Agenda Items
March 27 2023 Commission Work Plan Study Session
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• 7:45 p.m. Public Art Commission
May 22, 2023 • Minutes
• Paint the City: Art Recommendations to Council
• Fiscal Year 2023/24 Work Plan
• Chalk Art OR #SaratogaROCKS
• Future Agenda Items
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Public Art Commission Agenda Planner – May 2023
Page 2
July 17, 2023 • Minutes
• #SaratogaROCKS
• Future Agenda Items
September 18, 2023 • Minutes
• Selection of Chair and Vice Chair
• #SaratogaROCKS
• Future Agenda Items
November 20, 2023 • Minutes
• Fiscal Year 2024/25 Work Plan
• #SaratogaROCKS
• Future Agenda Items
January 15, 2024 • Minutes
• Fiscal Year 2024/25 Work Plan
• #SaratogaROCKS
• Future Agenda Items
March 18, 2024 • Minutes
• #SaratogaROCKS
• Future Agenda Items
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Public Art Commission Agenda Planner – May 2023
Page 3
FISCAL YEAR 2022/23 WORK PLAN
Approved March 28, 2022
1. Sculpture Program
Review work efforts of the Public Art Committee to identify opportunities for sculptures
at the City Hall Courtyard and Gateway locations then comprehensively assess
opportunities for sculpture placement in Saratoga, including evaluation of locations,
artist selection process (such as whether to approach specific artists or accept
proposals from artist), and expectations for artwork (such as desired size or themes),
then return to City Council with a proposal for consideration. With Council’s approval,
implement sculpture program plans.
Committee Members:
• Siana Smith
Implementation:
• January 2023 – February 2023: Subcommittee meeting(s) to review past efforts and
develop a recommendation to the Commission
• March 20, 2023: Commission consideration of recomme ndation
• April 2023: City Council consideration/approval of recommendation
2. Public Art Fundraising
Explore options for raising funds for and non-monetary contributions, such as space or
partnerships, to support City public art efforts and present a fundraisi ng proposal to
the City Council for consideration. With Council’s approval, implement fundraising plan.
Committee Members:
• James Cai
• Sohini Kar
Implementation:
• March – April 2023: Subcommittee to develop a recommended fundraising plan
• May 15, 2023: Commission consideration of committee recommendation
• June 2023: City Council consideration/approval of Commission recommendation
3. Projection Art
Explore opportunities for projection art and return to City Council with a proposal for
consideration, including possible themes, locations, community participation,
frequency, and timing. For example, students could be invited to submit artwork
(written, visual, and/or performing) to be projected at night in the City during Youth Art
Month or the community could share submissions that celebrate Asian American Art
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Public Art Commission Agenda Planner – May 2023
Page 4
that are projected at night at in the City during Asian American and Pacific Islander
Heritage Month.
Committee Members:
• Sohini Kar
• Gloria Wu
Implementation:
• March – April 2023: Subcommittee to develop a recommended program
• May 15, 2023: Commission consideration of committee recommendation
• June 2023: City Council consideration/approval of Commission recommendation
4. Montalvo Arts Center Collaboration
Explore opportunities to collaborate with Montalvo Arts Center, such as temporary
placement of Artist in Residency work on City property, and present a proposal to the
City Council for consideration.
Implementation:
• November 21, 2022: Staff to invite Montalvo Arts Center representative to attend
meeting to discuss opportunities for collaboration
5. Artwork Exhibit Opportunities
Identify non-traditional exhibit locations in the City where there is an opportunity to
temporarily display artwork at or in public spaces, including spaces
managed/maintained by community partners. For example, locations could include City
buildings and properties, Saratoga Library, schools, or West Valley College. Ask staff to
assess feasibility of displaying artwork at those locations. Present proposal for exhibi t,
including art selection and locations. Artwork that is displayed could be developed
through other work plan items, such as projection art or the online art challenge, or
through collaboration with community partners. With Council’s approval, implement
proposed plan and seek Council authorization prior to placement of any artwork
proposed for City property.
Committee Members:
• Siana Smith
• Gloria Wu
Implementation:
• January – February 2023: Subcommittee to develop recommended artwork exhibit
opportunities
• March 20, 2023: Commission consideration of committee recommendation
• April 2023: City Council consideration/approval of Commission recommendation
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Public Art Commission Agenda Planner – May 2023
Page 5
6. Saratoga Loves Poetry
Invite students at schools located in Saratoga to submit original poetry 2 to 4 times per
year to be reviewed and selected by the Public Art Commission to be showcased in a
variety of ways, such as through City online communication channels, through a
temporary display, requesting publication in local newspapers, and/or at special events
and activities, including as part of other work plan efforts, such as projection art.
Committee Members:
• Ramya Vasu
Implementation:
• May – June 2022: Subcommittee to develop a recommended program
• July 18, 2022: Commission consideration of committee recommendation
• August – October 2022: Coordination with schools and implementation of program
• October 2022: Subcommittee to develop recommended list of poems to showcase
• November 21, 2022: Commission consideration of committee recommendation
• November – December 2022: Showcase of poems
7. Chalk Art
Explore options to host chalk art activities at several existing community events,
including Summer Movie Nights hosted by the City, Saratoga Classic Car Show hosted
by the Chamber, and the Wildwood Music Fest hosted by the Chamber. Chalk art
activities would be documented through photos and/or video.
Implementation:
• At every regular meeting, discuss opportunities to host Chalk Art or #S aratogaROCKS
activity at upcoming events within the next 2 to 3 months in the community
8. Online Art Challenge
Challenge the community to submit and share artwork at regular intervals over a
designated amount of time (such as once a week for one month). Participants would be
invited to select one medium for all submissions over the course of the challenge (such
as dance or photography). Selected artwork could be featured by the City in different
ways, such as being shared online.
Committee Members:
• Sohini Kar
• Gloria Wu
Implementation:
• May – June 2022: Subcommittee to develop a recommended program
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Public Art Commission Agenda Planner – May 2023
Page 6
• July 18, 2022: Commission consideration of committee recommendation
• August – September 2022: Implementation of program
9. Paint the City
Continue the Paint the City utility box painting program starting in fall/winter 2022 and
consider the addition of non-City owned utility boxes. Once locations are identified and
authorized by the City Council, residents age 10 and older would be invited t o submit
conceptual artwork for utility box locations. The Public Art Commission would then
review conceptual artwork and select up to 3 options per location. The top 3 selections
would be posted online for public voting where residents can engage in the process by
selecting their favorite conceptual design per location. After the close of voting, the
Commission would make a recommendation on artwork to the City Council. Selected
artists receive a stipend of $600.
Committee Members:
• James Cai
• Ramya Vasu
Implementation:
• July – August 2022: Subcommittee to develop a recommended program
• September 19, 2022: Commission consideration of committee recommendation
• November 2022: City Council consideration/approval of Commission
recommendation
• December 2022 – January 2023: Application period
• January 2023: Subcommittee to develop recommended Top 3 selections for each
location
• January 16, 2023: Commission consideration of committee recommendation
• January – February: Public voting
• March 20, 2023: Results of public voting and Commission recommendation on final
artwork
• April 2023: City Council consideration/approval of Commission recommendation
10. State Route 85 & Union Pacific Overpass Artwork
Research opportunities for artwork, such as a mural, to be placed on the State Ro ute 85
and Union Pacific overpass pillars or other concrete elements (shown below in yellow).
Present proposed plan to City Council for consideration and implement with approval
from the City Council.
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Public Art Commission Agenda Planner – May 2023
Page 7
Committee Members:
• Siana Smith
• Ramya Vasu
Implementation:
• November – December 2022: Subcommittee to develop a recommended
opportunities for artwork
• January 16, 2023: Commission consideration of committee recommendation
• February 2023: City Council consideration/approval of Commission recommendatio n
11. #SaratogaROCKS
Continue to encourage participation in the City of Saratoga’s #SaratogaROCKS program,
which provides free rock painting kits to community members, and explore ways to
enhance the program, increase participation, and make more appealing to community
members. Conduct strategic outreach, such as providing kits to local retirement
communities or hosting rock painting at local events. Document use of kits through
photos or video.
Implementation:
• At every regular meeting, discuss opportunities for Commissioners to attend
upcoming community events and host #SaratogaROCKS or Chalk Art activity.
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FISCAL YEAR 2023/24 WORK PLAN
Approved March 27, 2023
1. Projection Art
Explore opportunities for projection art and return to City Council with a proposal for
consideration, including possible themes, locations, community participation, frequency,
and timing. For example, students could be invited to submit artwork (written, visual,
and/or performing) to be projected at night in the City.
Committee Members:
• Sohini Kar
• Gloria Wu
2. Artwork Exhibit Opportunities
Identify non-traditional exhibit locations in the City where there is an opportunity to
temporarily display artwork at or in public spaces, including spaces
managed/maintained by community partners. For example, locations could include City
buildings and properties, Saratoga Library, schools, or West Valley College. Ask staff to
assess feasibility of displaying artwork at those locations. Present proposal for exhibit,
including art selection and locations. Artwork that is displayed could be developed
through other work plan items, such as projection art or the online art challenge, or
through collaboration with community partners. With Council’s approval, implement
proposed plan and seek Council authorization prior to placement of any artwork
proposed for City property.
Committee Members:
• Siana Smith
• Gloria Wu
3. Saratoga Loves Poetry
Invite students at schools located in Saratoga to submit original poetry for the chance
to win a prize, to be showcased in a variety of ways, such as through City o nline
communication channels, through a temporary display, requesting publication in local
newspapers, and/or at special events and activities, including as part of other work plan
efforts, such as projection art. Explore options to collaborate with Sarato ga Library as
part of their annual contest or a new contest. In addition or as an alternative, consider
options to include residents of all ages in 1 contest per year.
Committee Members:
• Ramya Vasu
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4. Paint the City
Continue the Paint the City utility box painting program starting in fall/winter 2022 and
consider the addition of non-City owned utility boxes. Once locations are identified and
authorized by the City Council, residents age 10 and older would be invited to submit
conceptual artwork for utility box locations. The Public Art Commission would then
review conceptual artwork and select up to 3 options per location. The top 3 selections
would be posted online for public voting where residents can engage in the process by
selecting their favorite conceptual design per location. After the close of voting, the
Commission would make a recommendation on artwork to the City Council. Selected
artists receive a stipend of $600.
Committee Members:
• James Cai
• Ramya Vasu
5. #SaratogaROCKS
Continue to encourage participation in the City of Saratoga’s #SaratogaROCKS program,
which provides free rock painting kits to community members, and explore ways to
enhance the program, increase participation, and make more appealing to community
members. Conduct strategic outreach, such as providing kits to local retirement
communities or hosting rock painting at local events. Document use of kits through
photos or video.
Implementation:
At every regular meeting, discuss opportunities for Commissioners to attend upcoming
community events and host #SaratogaROCKS or delivery rock painting kits to local
organizations.
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COMMISSION RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES
Resolution No. 21-047
I. STRUCTURE
A. Membership. The Public Art Commission of the City of Saratoga shall consist of five
members appointed by the City Council. Members are required to meet qualifications
identified in City Code Section 2-12.020. The first five Commissioners appointed will
be exempted from City Code Section 2-12.020(a)(3).
B. Term of Office, Vacancies and Removal, Officers. The term of office, vacancies and
removals, and officers of members of the Commission shall be as set forth in the City
Code Section 2-12.020 except that the terms of four Commissioners initially
appointed to the Commission shall be partial terms of one, two, and three years to
ensure that the Commission terms are staggered in accordance with City Code 2-
12.030(c).
II. ADMINISTRATION
A. Meetings. The Public Art Commission shall hold regular meetings every other month.
The date and time of these meetings shall be approved by vote of the Commission.
B. Rules of Procedure. The Commission shall in all respects comply with the
requirements for City Commissions as set forth in the City Code and City Council
policies.
C. Compensation. Members of the Commission shall serve without compensation.
When in accord with current City policy and when arranged in advance with the City
Manager, actual and necessary expenses incurred by Commission members acting in
their official capacity shall be reimbursed by the City.
D. Records. The staff liaison of the Commission shall keep a record of all proceedings,
deliberations, findings, determinations, and recommendations of the Commission.
These records shall be available to the public, and copies shall be filed with the City
Clerk.
E. Staff Support. Staff support required by the Commission shall be provided consistent
with City budget authorizations.
III. RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES
1. The Commission shall provide counsel and recommendations on public art policies,
budgets, plans, and procedures to the Saratoga City Council.
2. As directed by the City Council, evaluate and assess public art projects or programs
and perform such other activities as may be directed by the Saratoga City Council.
3. The Commission shall maintain communications with the City Council and City staff
on public art-related matters.
4. Provide support and/or advice on events or programs related to City public art.
5. Maintain awareness and knowledge of public art trends and principles.
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