HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-16-2021 Public Art Committee Agenda PacketSaratoga Public Art Committee Agenda - Page 1 of 3
SARATOGA CITY COUNCIL
PUBLIC ART COMMITTEE
February 16, 2021
4:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING
Teleconference/Public Participation Information to Mitigate the Spread of COVID‐19 This meeting will be entirely by teleconference. All Council/Commission members, staff, and public will only participate via the Zoom platform using the process described below. The meeting is
being conducted in compliance with the Governor’s Executive Order N‐29‐20 suspending certain
teleconference rules required by the Ralph M. Brown Act. The purpose of this order was to provide
the safest environment for the public, elected officials, and staff while allowing for continued
operation of the government and public participation during the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Members of the public can observe and participate in the meeting by:
1. Using the Zoom website at https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88445173419 or through the Zoom
App (Webinar ID 884 4517 3419and using the tool to raise their hand in the Zoom platform
when prompted to speak on an agenda item; OR
2. Calling 1.408.638.0968 or 1.669.900.6833, entering the Webinar ID 884 4517 3419, and
pressing *9 when prompted to raise their hand to speak on an agenda item.
The public will not be able to participate in the meeting in person. During the meeting, the process
for members of the public to be recognized to offer public comment will be explained.
As always, members of the public can send written comments to the Committee prior to the
meeting by commenting online at www.saratoga.ca.us/publicart prior to the start of the meeting. These emails will be provided to the members of the Council/Commission and will become part of the official record of the meeting. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Governor’s Executive Order, if you need assistance to participate in this meeting due to a disability, please contact the City Clerk at debbieb@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.
Saratoga Public Art Committee Agenda - Page 2 of 3
ROLL CALL
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS Any member of the public may address the Public Art Committee for up to three (3) minutes on matters not on the Agenda. The law generally prohibits the Public Art Committee from discussing or taking action on such items. However, the Public Art Committee may schedule the item for discussion at a future meeting. AGENDA ITEMS:
1. Public Art Committee Minutes
Recommended Action: Review and approve the Public Art Committee minutes from January 19, 2021.
2. Paint the City 2021
Recommended Action: Review Top 3 recommendations for Paint the City from the Library & Community
Engagement Commission and finalize the Top 3 for public voting.
3. Public Art Policy Amendment
Recommended Action:
Consider draft change to the Public Art Policy and make a recommendation to the City
Council.
4. Nuts About Saratoga Acorn Replacement
Recommended Action:
Authorize replacement of one of size bronze acorns used as part of the Nuts About
Saratoga program.
5. Gateway Sculpture Recommended Action: Consider and provide direction on options for a sculpture at Saratoga Gateway (Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road and Prospect Road). 6. Courtyard Sculpture Recommended Action: Receive update on placement of sculptures by Colleen Wilcox in the City Hall Courtyard.
7. Public Art Budget
Recommended Action: Receive status update on the Public Art Fiscal Year 2020/21 budget.
8. Updates on Existing Projects
Recommended Action:
Receive updates on existing projects and programs.
Saratoga Public Art Committee Agenda - Page 3 of 3
9. Future Meetings
Recommended Action:
Discuss agenda topics for the next meeting on March 16, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. ADJOURNMENT CERTIFICATE OF POSTING OF THE AGENDA, DISTRIBUTION OF AGENDA PACKET, & COMPLIANCE WITH AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT I, Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager for the City of Saratoga, declare that the foregoing agenda for the meeting of the Public Art Committee was posted and available for review on
February 12, 2021 at the City of Saratoga, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA 95070 and on the
City's website at www.saratoga.ca.us Signed the 12th day of February 2021 at Saratoga, California.
Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager
In accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act, copies of the staff reports and other materials
provided to the Public Art Committee by City staff in connection with this agenda are available at
the office of the City Clerk at 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA 95070. Any materials
distributed by staff after the posting of the agenda are made available for public review at the
office of the City Clerk at the time they are distributed to the Public Art Committee.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk at debbieb@saratoga.ca.us or by calling 408.868.1216 as
soon as possible before the meeting. [28 CFR 5.102-35.104 ADA title II]
Saratoga Public Art Committee Minutes - Page 1 of 2
MINUTES
JANUARY 19, 2021
PUBLIC ART COMMITTEE
REGULAR MEETING
The Public Art Committee was called to order virtually using Zoom at 4:04 p.m.
ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Council Members Mary-Lynne Bernald, Kookie Fitzsimmons
Advisory Members Judy Dennis, Cristina Meiser, Maggie Tsai
ABSENT: None
ALSO PRESENT: Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager
Kayla Nakamoto, Administrative Analyst
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS ON NON-AGENDIZED ITEMS
None
AGENDA ITEMS:
1. Public Art Committee Minutes
Recommended Action:
Review and approve the Public Art Committee minutes from December 15, 2020.
FITZSIMMONS/BERNALD MOVED TO APPROVE THE PUBLIC ART COMMITTEE
MINUTES FROM DECEMBER 15, 2020. MOTION PASSED. AYES: BERNALD,
FITZSIMMONS. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT: NONE.
2. 2021 Meeting Schedule
Recommended Action:
Consider and provide direction on the 2021 meeting schedule of the Public Art Committee.
Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager, introduced the item.
The Committee discussed the meeting schedule for 2021.
FITZSIMMONS/BERNALD MOVED TO CONTINUE HOLDING REGULAR MEETINGS ON
THE 3RD TUESDAY OF THE MONTH AT 4:00 P.M. AND CANCEL THE MEETINGS IN
AUGUST 2021. MOTION PASSED. AYES: BERNALD, FITZSIMMONS. NOES: NONE.
ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT: NONE.
3. Shadow Art Program
Recommended Action:
Consider options for a Shadow Art Program and provide guidance to staff on how to
proceed with the program.
3
Saratoga Public Art Committee Minutes - Page 2 of 2
Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager, introduced the item.
The Public Art Committee discussed options for the Shadow Art Program.
FITZIMMONS/BERNALD MOVED TO PROCEED WITH THE SHADOW ART PROGRAM AS
OUTLINED BY STAFF IN THE AGENDA ITEM MEMO. MOTION PASSED. AYES: BERNALD,
FITZSIMMONS. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT: NONE.
4. Public Art Budget
Recommended Action:
Receive status update on the Public Art Fiscal Year 2020/21 budget.
Kayla Nakamoto, Administrative Analyst, provided a status update on the 2020/21 budget.
5. Updates on Existing Projects
Recommended Action:
Receive updates on existing projects and programs.
Kayla Nakamoto, Administrative Analyst, provided a status update on existing projects.
6. Future Meetings
Recommended Action:
Discuss agenda topics for the next meeting on February 16, 2021 at 4:00 p.m.
The Committee requested that the February meeting agenda include Gateway Sculpture
Options and Update on City Hall Courtyard Sculpture. The Committee also asked to
include Banksy-Inspired Public Art on the March meeting agenda. The Committee also
requested an event to celebrate the completion of the wall mural when possible.
ADJOURNMENT
FITZSIMMONS/BERNALD MOVED TO ADJOURN THE MEETING AT 4:38 P.M. MOTION PASSED.
AYES: BERNALD, FITZSIMMONS. NOES: NONE. ABSTAIN: NONE. ABSENT: NONE.
Minutes respectfully submitted:
Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager
City of Saratoga
4
CITY OF SARATOGA
Memorandum
To: Public Art Committee
From: Kayla Nakamoto, Administrative Analyst
Date: February 16, 2021
Subject: Paint the City 2021
The deadline to submit applications for City’s program, Paint the City was on January 31. A total of 70 qualified applications were submitted for consideration. At the February 8,
2021 Library and Community Engagement Commission meeting, the Commission reviewed the (Summary of Applications and Conceptual Artwork). They selected 3 designs
for each of the 3 utility box locations that they are recommending to the Public Art Committee for consideration.
Once the Public Art Committee finalizes the top designs for the 3 utility box locations, the
designs will be posted on Peak Democracy for residents to rank. Residents will have roughly 1 month to cast their votes. The results of voting will be shared with the Public
Art Committee at the March 16, 2021 meeting. Per the Public Art Policy, a formal recommendation to place the artwork is required before artwork is presented for City
Council approval at the April 7, 2021 meeting. Following Council approval, Paint the City volunteers and selected artists will be invited to the April 21, 2021 meeting to be
recognized.
Attachments: - Paint the City 2021 - Top 3 Summary of Applications
- Paint the City 2021 - Top 3 Conceptual Artwork - Slides
5
2021 Paint the City Applications - Location 1 - Page 1
P ain t e Cit y
Saratoga Utility Box Art Project
Summary of Recommended Top 3 Artist Applications
Number First Name Last Name Location Description Concept Preview
1 Ella Zhang 1 When I think of Saratoga the first things that comes to mind
are the beautiful parks and succulent plants that grow all over
the neighborhoods. So in my sketch of the box, I incorporated
some succulent plants and a bench which is often seen in
parks.
6 Lorraine &
Mara
Sheu 1 Our proposed art depicts the lively activity and features of the
bike trails in Saratoga.
Application Deadline:January 31, 2021
Total Applications Received:70
Total Location 1 Applications:30
Total Location 2 Applications:22
Total Location 3 Applications:18
6
2021 Paint the City Applications - Location 1 - Page 2
Number First Name Last Name Location Description Concept Preview
8 Shannon Wang 1 This art reflects the fun memories I have of growing up in
Saratoga. I loved going out to boba with my friends, hanging
around Big Basin Cafe, playing in Wildwood Park and the
general beauty of this city. I am a little sad that the pandemic
has prevented us from having normal lives but hopefully this
box will be a bright reminder of better things to come.
7
2021 Paint the City Applications - Location 2 - Page 3
Number First Name Last Name Location Description Concept Preview
43 Lavana &
Zerlina
Lai 2 Before urbanization during the late 1900s, Saratoga was
covered in fruit orchards. Now, most of them have been
replaced with modern suburbs. Fortunately, not all of them
have disappeared; we are lucky to enjoy the path lined with
apricot trees when we walk around the Saratoga library and
during the annual Blossom Festival. The three scenes depicted
on each of the apricots are animals that we frequently see
around our house: deer eat our plants, hummingbirds make
their nests in nearby trees, and monarch butterflies migrate
throughout the region.
50 Starr Davis & Deb Conway 2 My submission is in support of our heritage of orchards and
the part bees play in producing fruit. There are bee keepers
here, including myself. Many of us especially in the time of
covid, are growing fruits and vegetables at home. I live inn
old apricot orchard. It is incredible the difference bees have
made in increasing my fruit and vegetable yields! Of course
the honey and beeswax candles are appreciated as well. On
Scotland and Saratoga Ave,. the added box to the main utility
box seemed like a perfect bee hive box in a garden. I didn't
submit sides for the smaller box, but I would paint them in
a matching style. The back of the box partly faces a brick
wall and part can be seen by a nearby house. I felt the hive
hexagonal red brown blended with the brick wall.
8
2021 Paint the City Applications - Location 2 - Page 4
Number First Name Last Name Location Description Concept Preview
52 Tiffany Huang 2 "With the diversity of Saratoga, in which many Americans
of color—particularly Asian Americans—reside, our first
goal with this design is to showcase the beauty of one’s
heritage. In our design, pigeons sit on a powerline, with a
few of them transforming into origami cranes accompanied
by a flurry of paper petals. The metamorphosis of the
live birds—an everyday image of the Saratoga suburb—
into origami cranes—which serve as an emblem for hope
and Asian American culture—symbolizes Saratoga’s
unique amalgamation of people of all racial backgrounds.
But beyond cultural appreciation, the act of being grateful for
what one has is also something that is relevant to Saratoga
living, given that most residents are fortunate enough to live
in a safe neighborhood with quality education and housing.
Our artwork depicts the experiences around Saratoga that
have become small epiphanies of the beauty of our city,
even in moments as easily overlooked as watching pigeons
on a powerline from one’s car at a stoplight. As we continue
to familiarize ourselves with our new lifestyles in the era of
COVID-19, the importance of recognizing both our ethnic
backgrounds and mundane beauty has, in itself, become a
part of everyday life around Saratoga and the world. "
9
2021 Paint the City Applications - Location 3 - Page 5
Number First Name Last Name Location Description Concept Preview
57 Clementine DicksonChild 3 Saratoga is a great place to visit and live, but not many people
know why. Saratoga is a beautiful place full of activities, and
this utility box represents it. The artwork represents why we
should appreciate Saratoga more, like the vineyards, beautiful
Hakone gardens, and all the horse activities. The artwork is
easy to read and recognize its beauty and represents what
Saratoga truly is.
61 Jasmine Qin 3 Given the crazy unprecedented year we've had, I wanted
to create a peaceful artwork that could inspire fellow
Saratoga residents to take charge of their mental health and
let go of whatever stressors have weighed them down this
year, especially those that we can't control. For me, finding
dandelions around our city and wishing on them has always
been a cheerful activity that I've done since childhood.
69 Susan Seichrist 3 Friendship Park, at the corner of Quito and Pollard Road, was
named to honor the immigrants who owned or worked on the
fruit orchards in Saratoga. This design is to honor their lives as
well as their work.
Please use this template for conceptual artwork. Designs should
cover all sides of the utility box. The template is not to scale;
selected artwork will need to be adjusted to t actual box size.
Space in the lower right corner of the back panel should include
the artist name(s).
There are 2 boxes at some locations. If a location with 2 boxes is
selected, 2 designs may be submitted if proposed artwork will be
substantially dierent for the two boxes. Otherwise, only 1 design
may be submitted per location.
Front Side 1 Back Side 2
Top
Artist Name:Utility Box Location:Paint the City
Saratoga Utility Box Art Project
3
Friendship
Park
fruit
friends
fun
Friendship
Park
live
laugh
love
Susan Seichrist
10
Location 1
11
Front Side 1 Back Side 2
Top
1Paint the City
Saratoga Utility Box Art Project
Artist Name:Utility Box Location:Ella Zhang (#1)
12
Front Side 1 Back Side 2
Top
1Paint the City
Saratoga Utility Box Art Project
Artist Name:Utility Box Location:Lorraine & Mara Sheu (#6)
13
Front Side 1 Back Side 2
Top
1Paint the City
Saratoga Utility Box Art Project
Artist Name:Utility Box Location:Shannon Wang (#8)
14
Location 2
15
Front Side 1 Back Side 2
Top
2Paint the City
Saratoga Utility Box Art Project
Artist Name:Utility Box Location:Lavana & Zerlina Lai (#43)
16
Front Side 1 Back Side 2
Top
2Paint the City
Saratoga Utility Box Art Project
Artist Name:Utility Box Location:Starr Davis & Deb Conway (#50)
17
Front Side 1 Back Side 2
Top
2Paint the City
Saratoga Utility Box Art Project
Artist Name:Utility Box Location:Tiffany Huang (#52)
18
Location 3
19
Front Side 1 Back Side 2
Top
3Paint the City
Saratoga Utility Box Art Project
Artist Name:Utility Box Location:Clementine DicksonChild (#57)
20
Front Side 1 Back Side 2
Top
3Paint the City
Saratoga Utility Box Art Project
Artist Name:Utility Box Location:Jasmine Qin (#61)
21
Front Side 1 Back Side 2
Top
3Paint the City
Saratoga Utility Box Art Project
Artist Name:Utility Box Location:Susan Seichrist (#69)
22
Paint the City 2021
Recommended Top 3 Designs
Public Art Committee –February 16,2021
23
Paint the City Locations & Stipends
1) Saratoga Avenue & Cox Avenue ($600)
2) Saratoga Avenue & Scotland Avenue ($600)
3) Quito Road & Pollard Road ($600)
24
Next Steps
•February 16:Public Art Committee to finalize Top 3 selections
•February –March: Public ranking of Top 3 selections (February –
March)
•March 16: Public Art Committee recommendation to Council to
accept artwork with highest number of votes
•April 7: City Council consideration of artwork recommendation
•April 21: City Council recognition of artists and volunteers
25
Location 1 Recommendations
26
Location 1 –Ella Zhang 27
Location 1 –Lorraine & Mara Sheu 28
Location 1 –Shannon Wang 29
Location 2 Recommendations
30
Location 2 –Levana & Zerlina Lai 31
Location 2 –Starr Davis & Deb Conway 32
Location 2 –Tiffany Huang 33
Location 3 Recommendations
34
Location 3 –Clementine DicksonChild 35
Location 3 –Jasmine Qin 36
Location 3 –Susan Seichrist 37
38
CITY OF SARATOGA
Memorandum
To: Public Art Committee
From: Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager
Date: February 16, 2021
Subject: Public Art Policy Amendment
The City’s current Public Art Policy, adopted in 2018, outlines the Public Art Committee’s
authority to approve installation of artwork. Staff is proposing the addition of a new
criteria that would allow the Public Art Committee to approve artwork that is valued at
$25,000 or less. This change was proposed by the City’s Risk Manager as damages to
leased artwork would be the City’s responsibility. Including artwork value as a
consideration for when Public Art Committee or City Council approval is required helps
ensure necessary City Council approvals for damages to artwork with a higher value.
Staff is recommending that the Public Art Committee recommend City Council adoption
of the revised Public Art Policy. The City Council is currently scheduled to consider the
Public Art Policy on March 3, 2021.
Attachments:
- Draft Public Art Policy Amendment
39
RESOLUTION NO. 21-____
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA
AMENDING THE PUBLIC ART POLICY
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Saratoga adopted Resolution 16-
028establishing the current Saratoga Public Art Policy; and
WHEREAS, since adoption of Resolution 16-028, the City Council formed the Public Art
Committee to provide the City Council with recommendations on programs that foster arts and
culture in Saratoga for the enrichment and appreciation of the City and its citizens; and
WHEREAS, with the formation of the Public Art Committee and an increasing interest in
public art, some of the responsibility regarding placement of public art was delegated to the Public
Art Committee with the adoption of Resolution 18-004; and
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to add a new criteria that would allow the Public Art
Committee to authorize placement of artwork or exhibits on City property that will be displayed
for a period of 3 years or less and is valued at $25,000 or less; and
WHEREAS, the Public Art Committee hereby is authorized to approve installation of
artwork and exhibits on City property that meet the following criteria:
• Artwork/exhibits do not impede typical uses of the site where they are proposed to be
installed
• Artwork/exhibits are appropriate in scale, media, and context with the intended display
location
• Artwork/exhibits do not contain political statements or symbols, religious reference or
symbols, profane or offensive content, graffiti-like style artwork, copyrighted or
trademarked material, or corporate or organizational references, branding, or symbols
• Artwork/exhibits are suitable for display to a diverse audience, including children, and
should help create a sense of place and community
• There is evidence of community support for the artwork/exhibit
• Artwork/exhibits installed outdoors is be able to withstand an outdoor environment
through the public display period
• Artwork/exhibits do not pose a threat to public safety
• Any costs associated with artwork/exhibits, such as a lease or installation expenses, can
be accounted for within the Public Art Budget approved by the City Council
• Artwork/exhibits will be displayed for a period of 3 years or less and is valued at
$25,000 or less
WHEREAS, placement of public art or exhibits on City property by the City of Saratoga
that do not fall within the discretion of the Public Art Committee shall be reviewed by the Public
Art Committee and, at the recommendation of the Public Art Committee, be considered for
approval by the City Council by majority vote on a case-by-case basis; and
40
WHEREAS, this resolution shall replace and supersede all prior resolutions, policies, and
understandings relating to the Public Art Policy.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Saratoga hereby
grants the Public Art Committee with the discretion to approve placement of public art and exhibits
based on the above criteria and any pieces of public art or exhibits that fall outside the discretion
of the Public Art Committee will be reviewed by the Public Art Committee and if recommended
for approval by the Public Art Committee, considered by the City Council by majority vote on a
case-by-case basis.
The above and foregoing resolution was passed and adopted at a regular meeting of the Saratoga
City Council held on the 3rd day of March 2021 by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Yan Zhao, Mayor
ATTEST:
DATE:
Debbie Bretschneider, CMC
City Clerk
41
CITY OF SARATOGA
Memorandum
To:Public Art Committee
From:Kayla Nakamoto, Administrative Analyst
Date:February 16, 2021
Subject:Nuts About Saratoga Update
In 2020, the Public Art Committee purchased 8
bronze acorns to be installed as part of the “Nuts
About Saratoga” program. The Committee
installed 6 bronze acorns at various locations in the
Village, Civic Center, and Saratoga Library. The
additional 2 pieces were saved for any future needs
of the program.
The acorn on 4th Street and Big Basin (East) has
been reported stolen. If the Committee is
interested in replacing the bronze acorn at this location, there is an available acorn that
staff can install.
42
CITY OF SARATOGA
Memorandum
To: Public Art Committee
From: Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager
Date: February 16, 2021
Subject: Gateway Sculpture
In recent months, the Public Art Committee has been discussing options for a sculpture
program. This started with consideration of a program modeled on the Los Altos Public
Outdoor Sculpture Loan program that would invite local artists to submit applications to
place artwork on public property for a limited term in exchange for a modest stipend.
Over several discussions on the concept, the Public Art Committee concentrated its efforts
on seeking a local artist interested in leasing a sculpture to the City for 2 to 3 years. The
two locations that the Public Art Committee has considered for placement of artwork
include the City Hall Courtyard and the Saratoga Gateway located at Saratoga-Sunnyvale
Road and Prospect Road.
When improvements to the
Saratoga Gateway were designed,
the original plan called for
placement of artwork in the location
where red geraniums are currently
planted. The Saratoga Gateway
location sees significant vehicle
traffic and very foot traffic. As a
result, the Committee has sought a
sculpture with significant scale and
mass that stands out in its
environment and can be
appreciated by vehicles as they pass by.
43
Staff has reached out to several local sculptors that produce larger scale work to gauge
their interest in partnering and to determine if they have available artwork for placement.
Artists Rick Waltonsmith, Jeff Owen, and David Middlebrook expressed interest in
partnering with the City and the Committee has considered works from these artists. Prior
to the shelter at home order, the Committee proposed holding a site visit to view Somo
and Viewpoint by Jeff Owen, who shared that he would be open to leasing either of these
pieces to the City for 2 years for $1,500. At the end of the lease, the City could opt to
purchase the sculpture. He suggested placement of the sculpture on a pedestal that is 2
feet tall and 2 feet wide.
At the January 2021 meeting, Council Member Bernald suggested that the Committee
could look at smaller scale artwork for placement at the Gateway location. The Committee
requested that discussion of a sculpture at Saratoga Gateway be included on the February
agenda.
The following questions have been provided to help facilitate Committee discussion
about the type of artwork it would like to place at Saratoga Gateway and how to proceed.
The questions can be used at the Committee’s discretion.
1. Should the artwork reflect a core value of the Saratoga community?
2. Should the artwork reflect a value that the City wishes to promote?
3. Should the artwork reflect a characteristic of Saratoga or the artwork location?
4. Should the artwork be approachable and widely accepted or should the artwork
challenge viewers?
5. What are the unique attributes of the artwork location? What type of artwork best
compliments those attributes?
6. Should the artist be local? What is the definition of local?
7. Does the Committee want to approach specific artists or invite interested artists to
submit artwork proposals?
8. What is the ideal budget?
9. What is the ideal amount of time that artwork will be on display?
10. Does the Committee want to lease or purchase artwork?
44
CITY OF SARATOGA
Memorandum
To: Public Art Committee
From: Crystal Bothelio, Assistant City Manager
Date: February 16, 2021
Subject: Courtyard Sculpture
In recent months, the Public Art Committee
has been discussing options for a sculpture
program. Most recently efforts have focused
on working with a local artist to place a
sculpture at Saratoga Gateway and at the
City Hall Courtyard.
At the August 2020 meeting, artist Colleen
Wilcox shared some of her artwork that she
felt comfortable loaning to the City. At the
September meeting, the Committee asked
staff to see if the City could loan Keeping Watch, Grace, and Electra for placement at the
City Hall Courtyard. Colleen let the City know that all 3 pieces are available to be leased.
Subsequently, the Committee approved placement of Keeping Watch, Grace, and Electra
in the City Hall Courtyard for up to 3 years pending discussion with Saratoga Rotary about
relocating the existing fountain that was donated by Saratoga Rotary in in March 2000.
Since then, the City Attorney’s Office has been working on a lease agreement for the
artwork. A copy of the lease was given to the artist in February for consideration.
Additionally, City Manager’s Department staff been speaking with Saratoga Rotary to
determine if there are concerns with relocating the fountain.
Attachments:
- Photos and descriptions of Keeping Watch, Grace, and Electra
45
Keeping Watch represents women’s sense of responsibility for keeping children safe -
their own and others. Constantly mindful of the needs of others while engaged in a myriad
of other tasks. That ever-present protective eye on the needs of others around them.
46
Grace suggests that feeling of deep gratitude when having witnessed human goodness,
the beauty of the world or tenderness toward others when we become acutely aware of
our interdependence.
47
Electra represents those times when we are faced with indecision. It’s the choosing
between alternatives which have profound ramifications for ourselves and others. It’s the
time before we move forward in one direction or the other.
48
CITY OF SARATOGA
Memorandum
To:Public Art Committee
From:Kayla Nakamoto, Administrative Analyst
Date:February 16, 2021
Subject:Public Art Budget
This item has been placed as a standing item on the Public Art Committee meeting
agendas to provide regular budget updates. The table below shows the estimated
amounts that are projected to be spent on each project and the actual expenditures. The
bottom of the table shows the remaining balances in the CIP, Lease and operating funds.
The Committee discussed some of the possible public art costs for Fiscal Year 2020/21.
The budget below reflects the programs and activities that the Committee agreed to
consider for Fiscal Year 2020/21. Expenses can be adjusted based on Public Art Committee
priorities. Additionally, many of the costs can be scaled.
Since the January 19, 2021 meeting, the budget table been updated to reflect the
following expenditures.
-Paint the City (volunteer supplies –prepping utility boxes): $200
Fiscal Year 2020/21 Budget
Public Art Programs
CIP
(est.)
CIP
(act.)
Lease
(est.)
Lease
(act.)
Operating
(est.)
Operating
(act.)
Sidewalk Hopscotch $750 $435
Saratoga ROCKS $600
Rainy Day Poetry $1,750 $690
Paint the City 2021 $2,400 $200
Wall Mural $2,500 $2,500
Sculpture Program
Shadow Art $10,000
PLACE Lease $1,500 $1,500
Total Expenditures $12,500 $2,500 $1,500 $1,500 $5,500 $1,325
Original Allocation $31,000 $31,000 $1,500 $1,500 $6,600 $6,600
Balance $18,500 $28,500 $0 $0 $1,100 $5,275
49
City of Saratoga
Public Art Committee
MEMBERSHIP
NAME POSITION
Mary-Lynne Bernald, City Council Member Voting
Kookie Fitzsimmons, City Council Member Voting
Cristina Meiser, Chair Library & Community Engagement Commission Advisory
Judy Dennis Advisory
Maggie Tsai Advisory
City Staff:
Crystal Bothelio, City of Saratoga | 408.868.1269 | cbothelio@saratoga.ca.us
Kayla Nakamoto, City of Saratoga | 408.868.1208 | knakamoto@saratoga.ca.us
AGENDA PLANNER
The Committee holds regular meetings on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 4:00 p.m.
MEETING AGENDA ITEMS
January 19, 2021 • Minutes
• 2021 Meeting Schedule
• Shadow Art Program
• Public Art Budget
• Updates on Existing Projects
February 16, 2021 • Minutes
• Paint the City 2021 Top 3 Recommendations
• Gateway Sculpture Options
• Courtyard Sculpture Update
• Nuts About Saratoga Acorn Replacement
• Public Art Policy Amendment
• Public Art Budget
• Updates on Existing Projects
March 16, 2021 • Minutes
• Public Art Budget
• Banksy-Style Street Art
• Rock Painting Virtual Event for People with Disabilities
• Updates on Existing Projects
April 20, 2021 • Minutes
• Public Art Budget
• Paint the City 2021 Final Recommendations
• Shadow Art Program
• Updates on Existing Projects
May 18, 2021 • Minutes
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• Public Art Budget
• Updates on Existing Projects
June 15, 2021 • Minutes
• Public Art Budget
• Updates on Existing Projects
July 20, 2021 • Minutes
• Public Art Budget
• Updates on Existing Projects
August 17, 2021 Meeting Canceled
September 21, 2021 • Minutes
• Public Art Budget
• Updates on Existing Projects
October 19, 2021 • Minutes
• Public Art Budget
• Updates on Existing Projects
November 16, 2021 • Minutes
• Public Art Budget
• Updates on Existing Projects
December 21, 2021 • Minutes
• Public Art Budget
• Updates on Existing Projects
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. The Public Art Committee is responsible for considering and recommending opportunities
for public art in Saratoga and authorizing placement of public art in the City of Saratoga
in compliance with the City’s Public Art Policy; and
2. The Public Art Committee consists of two Saratoga City Council members appointed by
the Council each year for a one-year term and three non-voting advisory members.
Advisory members shall serve terms of one calendar year and may be reappointed. Two
of the advisory members shall be appointed by the voting members of the Committee and
one shall be a member of the Library and Community Engagement Commission appointed
by that Commission. Advisory members may be removed at any time for any reason by
vote of the Public Art Committee.
PUBLIC ART PROJECTS
#SaratogaROCKS
Paint, place, and post to let the world know that #SaratogaROCKS! Paint your own rocks or
borrow a free #SaratogaROCKS kit from the City of Saratoga to get started. Place and find
#SaratogaROCKS throughout the community and share your rocks and the ones you find on
social media.
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Bicycle Racks
In 2019, the City installed new decorative bicycle racks. These fun bicycle racks are both
decorative and functional pieces of art. They are located at the Saratoga Library, the Civic Center
complex, and Blaney Plaza.
CHALK Full of HeART
Over the summer of 2020, the Public Art Committee hosted a virtual chalk art event. Residents
were invited to share photos on social media of their sidewalk chalk art using monthly themes
for inspiration.
Count Your Blessings Bench
On the “Count Your Blessings” bench, you will find life-sized bronzes of Willys and Betty Peck.
These two Saratoga residents were a critical part in the development of Saratoga’s character and
community. The bench was inspired by Willys and Betty’s practice of sitting together every day
to count their blessings. This bench was created and installed in 2017 in Blaney Plaza.
Hopscotch
At their meeting in October 2020, the Public Art Committee agreed to place artistic hopscotch
squares using chalk spray at Wildwood, Azule, and Gardiner Parks.
Mikrokozmosz
Mikrokozmosz is a mural located in the Joan Pisani Community Center that was created by artist
Pavel Mester. The mural is inspired by Robert Schumann’s Piano Quartet in E flat Op. 47,
interpreted by Tamami Honma. The painting is comprised of 3 pieces that is hung side by side.
The artwork of Pavel Mester was a donation to the City of Saratoga arranged with the assistance
of the Cal Arte Music Foundation and Charles Aznavour.
Nuts About Saratoga
In Spring 2020, six bronze acorns were installed throughout the City as a fun scavenger hunt for
Saratoga residents and visitors. Clues have been developed to help participants find the location
of each acorn hidden as part of the Nuts About Saratoga program.
Silly Walks
In 2020, the Public Art Committee placed signage in the Village and on Joe’s Trail encourage the
public to be silly, especially during challenging times. When the public sees the signs, they’re
encouraged to let loose, get creative, and record themselves doing their best silly walk and then
share the photo or video on social media.
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PLACE Bench
This steel five letter bench was created by the artist Steven Simon in 2008 and is being leased
from Montalvo Arts Center. The PLACE bench is located outside of the Saratoga Library and is
often used by Library patrons who use it enjoy their latest read in the open air.
Paint the City
The City of Saratoga started the Paint the City program in 2018 to turn plain utility boxes into
works of art. The Public Art Committee reviews conceptual artwork submitted by Saratoga
residents age 10 and older and selects up to 3 options per location. The top 3 selections are
posted online for public voting where residents can engage in the process by selecting their
favorite conceptual design per location!
Rainy Day Sidewalk Poetry
In 2020, the Public Art Committee launched the Rainy Day Poetry Program. Poems were painted
at several locations throughout the City using paint that can only be seen while wet.
Village Wall Mural
The Public Art Committee worked with local artist, Michelle Liu, to get the agreement of the
owner of the Mint Leaf Cuisine in Saratoga Village and the property owner to paint a mural on
the outside wall of the restaurant. On November 4, 2020, the City Council authorized placement
of the mural.
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