HomeMy WebLinkAboutOctober_7_2013_Minutes Minutes: Art in Public Places Board Meeting
Monday, October 7, 2013, 8:30 a.m.,Town Council Chambers
AIPP Board Members Present: Kaili Chipman, Cookie Flaum, Kathy Langenwalter, Jen Mason, Bill Pierce,
Dana Patterson, Wendy St. Charles, Dan Telleen, Margaret Rogers – Council Rep
AIPP Members absent: Doe Browning
Others Present: Molly Eppard AIPP Coordinator
1. Approval of minutes from September 9, 2013 meeting.
2. No citizen input.
3. Review of finalist artist proposals for the Seventh Annual Triumph Winterfest
Molly advises the Board that the two finalists, Thomas Barlow and Paul Wertin, are present to provide more
detailed information about their Winterfest concepts.
Thomas Barlow: Thomas has enlarged his drawing and colorized it in a storyboard for the presentation. He
also has images of ice sculptures showing his concept. Though he likes the candlelit idea, he is moving away
from that to programmable LEDs. Kathy asks about size of the sculptures. The smallest is 16 inches. They are
composed of clusters with bases, so that they are obvious rather than scattered. The Board believes 16 inches
is too small and rather 2 ½ feet are more likely. He shows images that illustrate the 5 inch seam increment and
welding the cylinders together. Molly asks about the logistics of lighting. It is a 3M LED product that is
waterproof and used for exteriors. He has allotted for 100 feet in his budget which could be cut into strips. Each
cluster will have a good sense of light. They are sealed, so neither weather nor snow accumulates inside. He
would like to try to have natural candlelight for a single night. He shows the hanging lantern elements. They are
planned for the pedestrian bridge. Molly confirms that the lights can be put on a timer and controlled. He has
discussed the lights with the distributor and they would be present at install to trouble-shoot. He would use
acrylic to create platforms. Thomas discusses the drawing and how the lanterns will be placed along the Gore
Creek Promenade. He would ideally like to have the lanterns placed throughout. The Board asks if they can go
over to the other side of the Creek. Bill confirms that the TOV owns the other side of the creek. Molly points out
thought that side of the creek gets much more direct sunlight. The Board discusses the issues of the sculptures
being vandalized. It is really hit or miss and you have no control, but can only take measures to protect the
installations. Molly confirms that we hire private security during the installations. Molly asks about the number
of sculptures. At this point he is about at 100 sculptures. He has worked in a contingency. Weather may
always be an issue. Kathy asks about the 100 lineal feet of lighting, would it be enough given the area. He
thinks 100 pieces can be cut. He said there is a wireless controller, but there are cables also involved. Bill asks
what would be the next step if we select this concept. He said it would be agreeing on numbers and then
focusing on the installation space. Bill suggests getting a more detailed map, so it can be better
conceptualized. Margaret clarifies that you cannot put anything directly in the river. Thomas confirms it would
not be touching the water, but the rocks. Dan explains that the duck race goes directly in the water, but you
have to be careful of the bladders beneath the pedestrian bridge. Molly asks the light source. He explains it
could also be battery operated. Thomas confirms that he would put himself in a position to maintain the
installation including light. He explains that the good thing about this concept is that he can pre-produce the
sculptures and not get into a position where we are short on ice. The sooner the approval is given, production
can begin. Kathy asks about timing. Molly explains that Peggy from Highline is here to discuss that today after
the presentations.
Paul Wertin: Paul reviews his previously presented drawings and new sketches for the proposal. He explains
that the idea is a running wall that forms into an arch on the rock promontory. There are then two additional
large scaled arches. Now he has rethought the space where the theater previously was placed. He is
proposing breaking the wall into two sections in this space and then forming the arch at the upstream. He likes
having the arches at the river. If they are placed into the river, it will keep people off of the arches. The ice wall
is rounded so people would not be able to climb on it. The termination would be at two locations in this revised
sketch. If the wall is broken up, there would be more ice in this particular arch which would be 10 feet tall. The
width is 16 feet end to end. The arch is 20 inches thick. The wall is a solid block 10 inches thick. The wall
would vary from 2 feet to 8 feet. The wall would have insets that would bring texture to it during the day as well
as at night when illuminated. Paul discusses the tree lighting that the stone wall by the covered bridge could
have an arch placed on top of it. He shows different shapes of arches and stacks. He believes he could make
a double arch closer to the pedestrian bridge. Kathy asks if the relief could be on both sides of the wall. He was
wary that it might be too busy, but it could be done. She suggests working with the pattern, so that it could be
seen through while having the pattern on both sides. Molly asks Paul to discuss lighting. He has been in touch
with Pink Monkey. He would use the TOV light fixtures. It is a larger ice project than last year, so it will be a
combination of TOV lights with the lights that Paul used last year. It would be contrast of ambient lighting and
rotating colors. Margaret asks about security cameras in the area and signage. Molly confirms that we have
both. We will also hire additional coverage from Lone Star Security. Molly asks Paul about placement of
sculptures in Slifer Square. Paul has considered some potential placements. Molly asks Paul to discuss a
contingency for maintenance with the Board about his proposal. He stands behind the project as his name is
on it and will want to ensure its integrity. He confirms that after the New Year, ice will be more available and
less expensive. Kathy asks about the long wall versus the two walls. He likes the idea of getting into the area
where the theater was. He will be open to hear ideas and work with the Board on the concepts for placement of
the arches. He wants to make it a nice walking experience.
Peggy Wolfe – Highline Entertainment: Molly introduces Peggy from Highline to the Board. She is very
involved with the Holidaze in Vail special event. She is here to discuss the direction that she has received from
CSE (Commission on Special Events) regarding Holidaze in Vail and the tree lighting. Molly gives a back
history to the Board about when the Triumph Winterfest has typically opened. The first 4 years the Winterfest
opened the Friday of MLK weekend. We introduced some polar bears early in the 5th year and the Logan Ice
Theater the 6th year around the Christmas holidays. This has created a momentum of what Triumph Winterfest
can do. Now we have been asked by CSE to see if we might be able to integrate the opening of Triumph
Winterfest to coincide with the tree lighting around the Holidaze in Vail. CSE has asked Highline to modify Vail
Holidaze. Peggy explains that it used to be a much bigger event, but the Vail Resorts funding has been
withdrawn. It included skate shows, kid zones, ski down, NYE, and tree lighting. It was much bigger in the past.
They have asked Highline to collaborate with AIPP/Winterfest in revamping the tree lighting. They want it a bit
more streamlined. The CSE felt it was getting to long. They asked Highline for a fresh approach and suggested
working with AIPP. They want to maintain some sort of presentation with the turning on of a tree, but
something also intriguing for attendees to enjoy. The location has been in Slifer Plaza in the past. There is no
problem in using that location. They want to take something that Winterfest is doing and make it a portion of
this celebration. This year it is only the tree lighting, ski down, fireworks, and ice skating. It is much more
streamlined, so we can now make a unique change from the past with a new tree lighting celebration. We have
an idea that may work well. Molly states that one of the challenges is with the two proposals themselves from
Paul and Thomas. The proposals are more abstract, so introducing a portion is a struggle. They are not literal
proposals. We thought that we have to go in a different direction altogether rather than introducing 5% of the
selected exhibition to Slifer Square around the holidays. We have been brainstorming on ice competitions.
There has been interest in the past, so we have looked into hosting an invitational ice carving completion along
Gore Creek Drive. It could be an interactive element to Holidaze, culminating in a people’s choice award that
can be presented at a tree lighting ceremony. It would create a different holiday aspect to that weekend. Logan
is interested in participating. Today, Peggy would like feedback from the board. Is it something that we start
small on this year and expanding on it in years to come? AIPP would be the artistic side, while Highline would
be on event side for the competition. Kathy asks Paul and Thomas about this time frame and if it is ridiculous
to try to do something so soon. Thomas asks about scale, impact, organized v.juried, and invitational. He
explains that these are all things to consider in putting together any ice competition. Thomas confirms that 4 to
6 blocks is considered a medium sized sculpture. Molly discusses platforms to be placed along Gore Creek
Drive in the shady locations. Molly discusses a possible stipend and prize monies. Peggy discusses the
schedule for the Holidaze. This would fall the weekend of the Dec. 20-22 with the lighting taking place on the
22. It would be a one day carve with the voting taking place from 3-5:00 pm. We would have 5 to 6 platforms,
so that people could watch the finishing touches. At 5:00 pm the voting would take place and winner
announced. We would then light the Checkpoint Charlie tree. This would provide more space for the tree
lighting altogether. Artistically it would need direction from AIPP. Kathy asks for input from Paul and Thomas.
Thomas talks about the sponsor recognition and sculpting so that guests can see sculptures if they are not
there on the day of the one day carve. We have looked at other competitions and their prize money. Dan asks
about budget. Molly confirms that Logan matches Triumph’s donation, but she is wary to put it all towards a
competition with only a small window of visibility. Dan thinks it is very short notice to put together a competition.
Molly asks for feedback from the Board. Kathy asks Paul and Thomas. They both would be interested in
participating. Thomas thinks it needs to be fine-tuned, but would suggest that a stipend for the artists would
make sense. He suggests $1000 per artist and $500 for the winner. Molly describes the plywood platforms to
Jen. Molly did discuss with PW about bringing and loading equipment on the pavers. Margaret asks Thomas
about timing to create sculptures. They both confirm it can be done in a day, but it really depends how large
you want to go. Peggy thinks the concept of various sizes is compelling. Molly does have concern about
sunlight in Slifer Square. Kathy asks Molly about her timeframe. Molly states that Highline would have to be
integral in pulling something like this event off successfully. Molly thinks it would be worthwhile to hire a
consultant/expert in ice sculpting to advise us. Cookie asks where we are with this event as a whole. Molly
confirms that we are not bound to anything, but exploring ideas and asking for feedback and direction. Peggy
states that CSE has just given them direction to collaborate with Winterfest. That is where we are – looking at
possible collaborations. It is a challenge because we are trying to create something that makes sense for both
parties. Dan asks if the funds then come all from AIPP and the Logan charitable donation. Dan questions the
expenses and how much a competition will cost. Margaret asks if the funds are sufficient. Molly explains that
we should be fine financially if the donations are confirmed. Margaret states we need to get Logan’s approval
and see if we can get ice. Peggy states that she is also concerned that we get talent in this short window of
time and it is worth this investment. Jen asks about how we are going to brand/market the event. Molly asks for
suggestions and how we should brand the Logan portion under the Triumph Winterfest umbrella. The Board
thinks this installation needs to have its own name. Peggy asks that if we cannot pull off the competition, is
there something else that can tie the tree lighting in, so that it is more substantial? The ceremony is only 15
minutes now. She explains that there needs to be something visually interesting taking place to integrate into
the tree lighting. Peggy asks the artists if they would be available to have a portion of their proposals available
as a Plan B near the tree lighting ceremony as a teaser or unveiling around Dec. 22? Both confirm. Molly asks
Peggy if we need to discuss this with Kelli McDonald. Peggy states that there is very little money from the town
for the tree lighting portion, so it would have to make sense to explain to the town that this is what AIPP is
doing around the week of the 20th and how we can join forces with AIPP to light the tree. Molly does think that
Slifer fountain does appear dank and cold in the winter, so we may want to incorporate trees into the fountain
to give it some life and texture. Molly met with Charlie Turnbull to discuss this possibility, similar to Children’s
Fountain as it is the main entry to Vail Village. It would also provide some shade for placing ice sculptures if we
go in that direction.
4. Temporary Art Placement at the Vail Public Library Review
Molly reviews the timeline for display of art at the Vail Library fireplace Oct. 14 – Jan. 10. We have five artists
who have submitted for consideration. Molly shows the Board what is presently on view at the Library to give
them a sense of scale. It is 36 x 48 inches. As discussed, we are doing anonymous entries. Molly reviews the
five entries with the title, the medium, and scale for each entry. The Board reviews the images for a second
time. Molly goes to each Board member to get their selected work to maintain the privacy of the review
process. The majority selected Family Tree by photographer Steve Chinn from Avon. It is photography on
canvas and measures 28 x 60 inches. Molly now reveals the artist’s names and the works that were submitted
for the Board’s reference. Bill asks if we can vote for the next selection process at this time. Molly explains that
we decided that we do not want to tie up a work of art that is for sale for a period of six months. The contract is
such, that it cannot be replaced or removed by the artist during the 3 month display period. She also reminds
the Board that the artists are also submitting works with consideration of the seasons for the display period.
Kathy confirms with Lori Barnes that we decided to maintain this process for this first year of the program. Lori
is very pleased with the program and would like to make it more celebratory for the artist who is selected. Molly
informs the Board that the administration in this selection period did not take as long as the inaugural selection
process. She reminds the Board that it was decided that each artist can only submit one work for
consideration. Dan remarks that he feels it is a shame that the other artists cannot have their work also on view
at the Library after getting this far. Molly reminds the Board that the artists submit for the selection and it is not
an invitational juried process. Molly reminds him of the free community room as an amenity for artists to display
their work and perhaps we can work on a group exhibition for these artists at a later date. Lori comments that I
should let the artists not selected know that the community room may be used for art display.
5. Coordinator/collection updates
Update on Rider 01 sale – The work has not sold, so she would like direction from the Board for the
artist. Kathy thinks it is fine if he would like to have it on display through the winter. The Board thinks we
should ask the artist what the artist would like to do.
Transformer Box Update – Molly informs the Board of the completion of this project. Working with the
artist Jan Burch was a pleasure.
Public Art Walking Map – Molly is working on it, but it has been a tedious process in confirming all of
the details on the collection, as she has found several errors previously recorded.
Bird of Paradise – It was advised by Comm. Dev. to keep the work in Lionshead. She asks the Board to
think of location for displaying the work in Lionshead.
Logan Ice Theater – Molly asks the Board for direction as far as future display of the ice theater. She
explains that she had proposed the idea for the installation to Paul Wertin and Nathan Cox. As it was a
project conceived and commissioned by AIPP what are the parameters for trademarking the art
installation? The Board asks Molly to discuss this with the town attorney, as they are not pleased with
the thought that an AIPP conceived and commissioned project might be taken elsewhere. Dan asks if it
is the first time that projection of film has been on ice in this capacity. Molly explains that she
researched the concept to see if it had been done and did not find anything previously executed that
was similar in nature to what she was proposing as an outdoor ice theater/cinema project in 2012.
6. Review of Triumph Winterfest Proposals
Molly comments that she really likes both proposals for very different reasons. She does have concern with the
width of the ice sculptures and the experimental lighting in Thomas’ proposal. She then remarks that maybe
the solution could be to have Paul’s proposal along the Gore Creek and move Thomas’ to Slifer Square for the
tree lighting. It would then be in a more intimate setting and may have a better overall atmospheric presence.
The Board likes the idea. Bill comments that it would make sense with the tree lighting and then not have the
pressure of working on the competition in such a short period of time. Dan is worried about scale on any of the
projects presented. He doesn’t think the projects are big for the space, but it is the light that makes the
relationship and covers the area. Molly’s concerns lie more with maintenance and longevity of the projects.
Molly comments that there are challenges with the other side of the creek due to sun exposure and
accessibility. Molly thinks there needs to be an electrical source, so we need to be mindful of utilizing those
sources and digging ditches with the cables, etc. Kathy thinks we have two great options and providing
Thomas with a scaled back version of his presentation at Slifer would be a great solution. She remarks that we
should pursue the funding for these proposals, rather than the competition idea. Molly suggests placing the
trees in the fountain would also add to the intimate setting. The Board comments that the exposure would be
great in that location. Dan comments that we shouldn’t fear the risk in doing something experimental. Molly
likes the competition idea, but needs more of a firm commitment from Highline in how they can assist in the
project. Dan thinks it would need to be started now for next year. Molly agrees. Kathy remarks that Thomas
commented on doing 30 inches versus 16 inches. She thinks that he can make more impact with the larger
scaled lanterns. If it could transition into Triumph then it could all be Winterfest with two installations. Kathy
liked one long wall versus the two walls. Molly informs the Board that she learned from PW that the tree at
Checkpoint Charlie may need more time to get healthy before putting tight lights around the branches. Cookie
confirms that we need to get Logan to agree to do the tree lighting installation. Molly confirms that we have a
contingency budget for our winter programs. She discusses the project account in which we place our
donations and monies earned from various sales related projects. Kathy asks for direction from the Board
regarding Paul’s proposal. Dana comments that she has a harder time visualizing Paul’s use of space. Kaili
thinks Paul’s is best for the creek location, but that he should come back one more time before the Board to
discuss the long versus short walls and arch placement. Jen comments on Paul’s willingness to come back
and repair the rain damaged installation from last year. The Board agrees that Thomas’ proposal would be
more suitable for the Covered Bridge location around the holidays. Cookie expresses concern with the
thickness of the luminary lanterns in the proposal. Molly confirms that once the ice gets sun struck it gets milky.
Dan and Bill agree with the direction of the Board. She will discuss this with the Logans for consideration. The
Board confirms that a competition will be too rushed at this point. The Board would like to have Thomas look at
the space and present at revised proposal with sketches. The Board suggests a budget of $10,000 to start in
working with Thomas on the budget. The Board motions to move forward with Thomas’ proposal at holidays
and Paul along for the creek for the historical install of Triumph Winterfest after January 1.
Meeting adjourned 10:30 a.m.