HomeMy WebLinkAboutSeptember_8_2014_Minutes Minutes: Art in Public Places Board Meeting
Monday, September 8, 2014, 8:30 a.m.,Town Council Chambers
AIPP board members present: Cookie Flaum, Julie Hansen, Kathy Langenwalter, Jen Mason, Dana
Patterson, Bill Pierce, Kara Woods, Amanda Zinn
AIPP Board members absent: Wendy St. Charles
Others present: Molly Eppard AIPP Coordinator, Margaret Rogers – Town Council Rep
1. Approval of minutes from August 4 meeting.
2. Citizen input - No citizen input.
3. Vail Valley Foundation 2015 light installation presentation with Legwork Studios
Molly introduces Megan Meier from the Vail Valley Foundation (VVF) who is the coordinator for 2015 festivals
and ceremonies. She then introduces Matt and Aaron from Legwork Studios in Denver who are here to present
a 2015 light installation project on behalf of the VVF. Molly reminds the Board that for protocol since Jen
Mason is an employee of the VVF she will leave the room when discussion occurs about the presentation and
is not able to vote in accordance to AIPP guidelines. Matt introduces Legwork Studios as a creative studio in
Denver who works largely with national advertising campaigns, directly with brands and agencies. Locally they
work with the City of Denver in creative video mapping projects where they project images on to large scaled
surfaces to manipulate the projection to appear in 3D. They have been in conversation with the VVF to bring
this to Vail for the 2015 festivities. They have identified a visual way-finding path through the village. They will
put custom built installations and project content upon them for the duration of the 2015 nighttime events. They
have identified 3 locations after meetings with the VVF: Covered Bridge, Gore Creek Promenade, and the area
between the Pedestrian Bridge and the International Bridge. For the Covered Bridge they would project on the
ceiling of the bridge, so not to obstruct the views of the creek from the sides. It may be content or even motion
triggered content as people pass through the bridge. The 3D light would draw you into the village. The Gore
Creek form will allow for a larger scale with the ability for congregating. They would map out the location to
complement the ice sculptures. They do consider the ambient light from other buildings that would dilute the
effect of the projection. The floating object in the creek between the bridges would be viewable from all
locations in the round, but especially the International Bridge. They want to draw visual cues from the language
of the 2015, so that it is a cohesive part of the event. These are just conceptual renderings and not the final
product. He shows the surfaces when they are without projection which are white during the day. He shows
representational views of what the surfaces will look like with static images. Julie confirms that there is no
advertising projected on the forms. Matt shows the Board a video of the 3D mapping that they produced for the
opening of the Clyfford Still Museum in Denver. It was projected on the exterior of the museum in transforming
the building through illusion. Molly asks if audio is included in the 2015 projects. He explains that they have not
discussed it, but it certainly could be a component of the installation. He then shows an example of work that
they did for the Mcnichols Civic Center building in Denver. He explains some of the challenges in working with
buildings from light, to trees, traffic, and environmental factors. He further explains that with the built structures
it is easier to control these issues for projection. Julie inquires about the music in this project. Molly informs the
Board that she talked to Legoworks about a year ago regarding potential video mapping in Vail perhaps for
Triumph Winterfest. She explains that there are very few buildings within Vail that we would have the ability to
control ambient lighting, windows, shades, etc. to produce such a project. He remarks that the city had to black
out every window in the Civic Center projection. Julie thinks that the music enhances the experience. He
agrees and that the sound design around the physics of the video projection also punches up the effect. This
was a part of the Create Denver and the closing night party for the Architecture Meeting in Denver. He shows
another video where they are projecting inside. It is a fashion show project for Burton during SIA. He then
shows an example of a custom surface versus projecting on a building. It is a 9 x 7 foot form almost like an
origami fold. They can line planes up and project with a few projectors to create a visually interesting abstract
form. It is lightweight portable pieces that they can control the look of more cleanly. He thinks with weather,
projecting on ice or snow can be very unpredictable. Molly asks the Board if they have questions. Kathy asks
again about snow which Matt thinks they need to stay away from because of the template that they create with
their software requires complete accuracy for the content. Kathy remarks that she thinks the success of these
shows have to do with scale. She thinks the man made forms will not have the scale that a building would have
to create an impact. Her experience is about scale. Megan comments that it will be Feb 3 – 14 from 5 pm until
10 pm each night. There will be a video technician from Ceavco on call for the entirety of the dates to trouble
shoot any issues. She also comments that while this will be the first time in Vail to have 3D video mapping, it is
clearly not Legworks’ first time. She explains that the VVF invited four companies to walk through the village
and make presentations for light installations for 2015. Legworks came back with a proposal within the budget
that the VVF had hoped. Molly remarks that she was a part of a few of the walks in the evening with the
companies and the VVF. She comments the goal is to activate Vail at night after the awards. This is why they
were looking for other activation points of the village beyond Solaris. Megan explains that the locations create
a path for guests to explore the entire village. It will be a variation of the show each night. Megan states that
$93,000 has been committed by VVF and they are here to ask AIPP for a $10,000 contribution towards the
project to bring it to Vail. She would work hand in hand with Molly to assure that AIPP gets recognition for
sponsorship in bringing this project to Vail as well. Molly mentions that she has talked to a number of TOV
employees about whether it is appropriate for the VVF to ask AIPP for a contribution. She was directed by the
Town Manager that it would be up to the AIPP Board to make a decision if they want to contribute to this
particular project. It would be necessary though to have it contracted that any donation that AIPP makes would
go directly to the art project and not the general budget for 2015. VVF would have to be accountable if the art
project was canceled and a donation was committed by AIPP. Julie asks for the total cost. The first proposal
was for $98,000 which did not include the structures. Megan went back to Legworks to see if a $103,000
budget would be viable. Legworks agreed. Julie confirms that music would be included in the $103,000 budget.
Bill asks if they considered projection on Pepi’s Face rather than something you need to be next to for viewing.
Molly comments that it was a spot discussed and it was a concern of accuracy. Matt comments that the
projection would just be content and not the illusion of three-dimensionality. He explains that you need to
consider the snow, tracks and the lack of control in projection. Bill comments that it would be nice to have
something visible from a distance. It would be something to draw people to the location. Molly comments that
there have been many iterations of the creative in projecting on snow and even snow making. She asks Megan
to further discuss what the VVF’s vision is in bringing a 3D light installation to 2015. She explains that the
committee met several times to discuss the pros and cons. The committee decided that it was fresh and
innovative and thought that Legworks had the experience to produce such an installation. Julie asks Molly
about the winter budget. Molly comments that AIPP typically spends about $20,000 into our winter programs
and projects. It is with the hopes that Triumph and Logan come through with their donations which at this point
she does not believe there to be an issue. She mentions that they wanted to see what was happening for
Winterfest. Molly comments that Kent Logan’s suggestion was that Winterfest and this might be combined. She
explained to him that Winterfest is scheduled to start during the Christmas holidays and continue through
January. As 2015 is a two week in February this would escalate the costs dramatically to have the video
equipment and technician’s on hand for a nearly 8 week period install. She mentions that subsequent to her
meeting with Kent Logan, she has expressed the concern that Winterfest would be striked to accommodate
2015. She has since discussed this concern with the VVF and that it does not make sense to strike the
sculptures. Molly explains that if Legworks does happen there needs to be a synergy between the lights and
Winterfest. She points out that Paul Wertin is also present to view the presentation in order to help him
understand what might occur on the creek. Molly feels that we need to continue to produce Winterfest in the
manner that we have for the past seven years. In combining the two projects, there is more likely to be
confusion and might dilute the Winterfest program AIPP has worked so hard to develop over many years.
Kathy asks what materials the forms will be constructed. Matt comments there are a couple options, but they
are not 100% sure which direction they will go. It will likely be determined looking at length and weather. They
are still looking at the various options and when the locations are confirmed they will have those
recommendations. They look for low impact environmental forms. It might even be a lightweight canvas.
Megan comments that the structures need to look good during the day. Dana asks if they will just be blank
during the day which they will. Amanda comments that the bridge makes sense, but reiterates that there is
clear communication if the creek area might be used given the Winterfest presence. Molly mentions that it is a
sunny location where we try to hug closer to the buildings and within the trees to stay away from the light with
the ice sculptures. Kathy comments that depending on timing, the sculptures may not even be there. Dana
comments that the views of the creek from the restaurants should not be obstructed. Molly remarks that would
be the VVF going to the restaurants to get permission. Megan remarks that they would approach the
restaurants to make sure everyone is on board. Julie asks about security. Megan remarks that security is of
utmost concern and they are hiring it throughout the night. Kathy asks if anyone needs more information. She
thanks Legworks and the VVF for the presentation. Kathy comments that there might be a way to use large
scale fabric so that it could be artistically interesting during the day so that it would not have to be taken down.
She comments on the large surfaces at the Sydney Opera house were impressive at the Vivid Sydney festival.
4. Coordinator updates and summer programs review
Library Community Collective Exhibition review. There were 143 people who cast ballots which
confirms good interest. The most votes were cast for Philip Frank of Vail who is presently at an artist’s
residency in Berlin. He received a total of 31 votes. The second place winner was Michael Crabtree
with 26 votes. All of the artists received votes, but these two artists received far more. Molly suggests
to the Board to have Philip on view from October 13 – January 12 & Michael Crabtree from January 12
– April 13. The Board motions to approve the two art works to be displayed over the next six months for
the art above the library’s fireplace.
Lionshead Art Tour Review. 12 people attended the tour. More people attended the reception prior, but
it was a rainy morning. The last village art walk had 60 people attend.
Bird of Paradise placement near the Lionshead Entry will take place in early November. Kathy has
been working with Molly and Chad from the TOV on the orientation and placement of the work.
Einstein has been donated to the Town of Vail’s public art collection from the Sitzmark. This process
had started in 2009, but it has now been appraised and donated to the town’s collection officially. Molly
will get a press release out thanking the Sitzmark. The work was appraised at $46,000.
Strata will start their public art process for their development. Molly has sent the requirements to the
developer.
Riddles on Wall Street relocation will take place this fall.
Colorado Loops by Yoshitomo Saito at International Bridge June 18 – September 30. Molly asks the
Board if they would be interested in extending the lease. The Board would like for the works to be on
view longer if the artist agrees.
Rembrandt exhibition at Grand View – 850 approximately attended. Molly met with the organizers and
town to discuss the exhibition. In hindsight they would have it be shorter with perhaps a Thursday –
Sunday run.
Deer Fence Artist. We were able to determine that the aspen graphics throughout the seasons was by
Elaine Kuntz. We have contacted Elaine and she is willing to have the work be the design for the Deer
Fence. A motion is made to use this graphic for the deer fence with a stipend of $2,000.
5. Triumph Winterfest logistics for 2014/15
The tree lighting will take place on Sunday, Dec 21. There are not a ton of activities with Holidaze in Vail this
season due to Vail Resorts cutting the Holidaze budget contribution. One thought is to begin the installation of
Triumph/Logan Winterfest earlier during the holiday season. This will open up the door for great holiday
exposure for the installation as well. Molly invited Paul Wertin to discuss his schedule as well. He would come
in the week of Christmas to begin the process. It would be an activity that people can see the formation of the
Triumph/Logan Winterfest throughout the Christmas week. I know that Logan likes the idea of a holiday
presence, but wants to see it go through 2015. Molly comments that with a contingency it might make it
possible. Kathy asks Paul about the length of the last installation. Paul comments that it lasted until March. The
sculptures were more dense and he thinks that the larger geometric forms seem to last longer. He thought
perhaps cubist forms might compliment the light installation well. If he starts Christmas it could be completed
by New Years. If the weather cooperates it very well could stay until March. Kathy is worried about the two
competing. Paul agrees. He thinks the motion might be a bit distracting from the illumination of the sculptures
within. Kathy asks about projecting on the ice, but Paul comments it may not be clear and precise enough for
the 3D mapping. If we were to project images or film on the ice, we would go back to the method that we
implemented for the Logan Ice Theater. Molly comments also that the price that was quoted for the 2015
project was for a two week period. The costs for the equipment rental would escalate dramatically for a two
month run. Margaret asks if only two light installations are done instead of three then the activation might be
accomplished since Winterfest is already in place on the creek. She asks if this would be a way of saving
money and not coming to AIPP for more money for this particular project. She remarks that $2.75 million was
already given by the town to the VVF for 2015. Kathy adds that the exterior of the covered bridge might be
more visually interesting. She thinks to limit the creek area. The bridge could entice viewers from the outside
because it is more visible from a distance. Molly asks Megan if there have been discussions in breaking down
the proposal to only have two installations versus the creek. Molly comments that Logan thought Winterfest
was best solely installed on the creek versus splitting up the two locations. Megan comments about the Slifer,
Children’s Fountain, the clock tower as possible locations and can go back to discuss the outside of the bridge
as a possibility. Kathy comments that the draw is what they do on buildings. Julie comments that the activation
of Vail at night is very important during 2015. Jen comments that there are concerts every night at Solaris.
Megan comments that the activation will take place until 10 pm every night, so people will be drawn throughout
the village. Amanda comments that the video mapping at the Olympics has been a huge draw. Molly asks if a
contingency for the ice to last through 2015 is the contribution that AIPP makes to the programs. Paul
comments that he will have to buy ice earlier in the project, but could have more ice to augment the installation.
Jen asks why the Winterfest lasted so long last year. He comments that we had rain through one night two
years ago which killed the ice. Last year was a colder season and we did not have extended warm days. Kathy
asks if Steve and Kent want a direction design wise. She comments that she thinks that we need clarity with
the program in regards to 2015. Molly thinks there is an opportunity with starting it earlier now since there are
not as many activities during the holidays. Paul will start now with his creative direction and scope over the
next several weeks. Jen thinks that we need to start being proactive about thinking about future sponsorship
for Winterfest. Molly comments that Logan matches Triumph and he would like for it to be called
Triumph/Logan Winterfest. Julie likes the light installation, as does Kara and think that we should move
forward. Bill remarks that the space may not be large enough for two distinctly different programs. Dana thinks
it will be ok if Paul compliments the built structures. Molly asks Pam Brandmeyer if she has concerns regarding
the views being obstructed with a built structure. She did not realize that the VVF committed the $93,000. She
thinks that they would want to look at it in more detail. The Board decides to table it until the entities have a
better vision of place and magnitude. Molly asks Megan if they could explore some of the suggestions that
were offered today with location, budget, and feedback from the Board. She better describes the animation of
the interior of the covered bridge as presented to the VVF.
6. Paper Lantern Project at Vail Tree Lighting
Molly comments that there is interest from the town to continue with the paper lantern project at the Vail tree
lighting. Helen would be available to run a workshop on Dec. 21. She suggests that we only have one day of
workshops to really have the people attend the tree lighting afterwards. Molly comments that there is strong
interest to have a Santa led procession through the village with the paper lanterns following the tree lighting.
Molly thinks it could be an event that could grow like many of the other paper lantern festivals through out the
world. Jen asks if the library is too far from the tree lighting and if we should look at locations closer to it for the
workshop. She thinks we lost a lot of people given the span and should explore looking at closer locations for
the workshops. Molly states that a number of people were never planning to attend the tree lighting. Molly
comments that the parade would be after the tree lighting so that it will be darker and that all will be gathered
there since others outside of library workshops will be attending. We have been brainstorming with Highline
who is producing Holidaze as far as the logistics for a Santa led procession. Perhaps we could even have
Santa leave on a Gondola.
7. “Art-spiration”
Molly explains that after a meeting with Bill Pierce, we thought it would be nice to wrap up our monthly
meetings with a review of public art images from around the world. Rather than passing our phones with
photos of images of public art from our travels we can share it with the group at the end of each meeting for
inspiration. Molly shares several images of public art images that she has taken from travels and exhibitions.
Meeting adjourned.