HomeMy WebLinkAboutApril 6, 2015 MinutesMinutes: Art in Public Places Board Meeting
Monday, April 6, 2015, 8:30 a.m.,Town Council Chambers
AIPP board members present: Cookie Flaum, Julie Hansen, Michael Kurz, Kathy Langenwalter, Bill Pierce,
Kara Woods, Amanda Zinn
No AIPP Board members absent
Others present: Molly Eppard AIPP Coordinator, Margaret Rogers – Town Council Rep
1. Swearing in of Michael Kurz to serve a two year term on AIPP Board by Tammy Nagel.
Board introduces themselves to new board member Michael Kurz.
2. Approval of minutes from March 2 meeting.
3. Citizen input.
4. Ford Park entry portals, Andy Dufford and Rachel Brenna, Chevo Studios
Molly introduces Andy Dufford to the board and is present to discuss the Ford Park Portal project further to
previous meetings. Greg Hall and Todd Oppenheimer from the Town of Vail are also present today to discuss
the project. Molly mentions that Kathy was involved in a recent Ford Park way finding meeting. Molly thanks
Andy for coming from Denver to meet with us this morning. Andy recognizes our familiarity with the park. He
remarks that it has its challenges especially in finding the park for newcomers. He is here to present his
proposal that will identify the park with a series of artful entries. He remarks that his proposal is different from
the way finding program which is a series of informational signs. The artful entries will not only be
informational, but they will establish a sense of identity for the park. While the recent upgrades have been a
major improvement to the park, the entries have remained untouched. Today Andy will propose the entries in
an integrated way to work with the way finding, landscaping, and other improvements within the park. Andy
discusses the key pedestrian entries that have been identified to the park. He identifies the entries on a Ford
Park map: the Betty Ford Way west, the creek path, the Manor Vail entry, Nature Center entry, playing fields
and tennis entries. He remarks that in these early stages we should go beyond this tight parameter – looking at
those who may arrive by Vail Valley Drive, and the parking structure. He thinks we should look at identity
markers and hints stretching beyond the existing tight boundaries of the park. He then shows images the
current entries and remarks how there are no indications, nor sense that some are entries to Ford Park. What
we want to do is to give people a sense of how the park is located in this big nexus of trails, paths and roads.
He has been involved with VVF and Zehren for the past several years on the improvements to the park. With
the design of the new social courtyard they have developed a vocabulary of stone and metal and in some
cases light that speaks to a developing identity in the park. The Ford Family Tribute, with a combination of
carving and sandblasting images, is also creating that new vocabulary of forms. There are indications of the
BFAG, but it is mindful of the BFAG’s own identity and leaving that distinct and specific. He then shows a
series of totems, illuminated pieces, gateways, and images related to other park and private projects and how
they might be integrated into the landscape. Molly remarks for the new board members that Andy was involved
in the early discussions of the portals about three years ago. He has sat down in the past with Doe Browning,
former AIPP chair, and public works when this was first identified as a project. He continues to show images of
stones, benches, compass, and hard scape that might exist in the vocabulary of forms which are possibilities
as we move forward. These may be peppered into artful elements at a greater distance if the program has a
greater reach. He now discusses his three phases of the proposal. In the first stage he would work with public
works to fully understand the way finding program, look at identified entries, but also at the wider net and how
people get to the park. He would develop a series of concepts that speak to the range of experiences that we
have discussed. In some cases it may be a formal entry, while in others it may be simpler. He would then
discuss the concepts with the board. Then in phase two there would be concept refinement from our
discussions. We will look at the practicalities of budget, utilities, access, and installation. Then a much tighter
package would be presented. After the approval of the concepts, the construction phase occurs. He then asks
the board for any questions about his proposal and scope of the project. Bill asks who pays for the portals.
Greg Hall remarks that there is a separate capital budget for the Ford Park portals coming out of RETT at
250,000. The way finding has its own budget. If we are to go over the $250,000 we would need to go back to
the Council or bring in AIPP dollars. While we are not using AIPP budget, we are using AIPP expertise.
Michael asks if the way finding is at a final stage that they can give Andy advice. Greg comments that we went
through meetings with AIPP and it was decided to separate the way finding from the artistic portals. He
remarks that there is a way finding advisory committee upon which Kathy sits.. There has been further
direction as a result of the meetings. For the most part, they will be using simple icons and specific maps of the
park that will be mounted upon light poles. There are other highway signs and along the Frontage road access
made of the original wood post Ford Park signs that will be carried into the program. With regard to the
direction that we have now he shows the board examples of images of the icons and illustrated map. Kathy
remarks that other things that were discussed at the meeting was to keep signs at eye level and before
anything is definitive with the way finding to see where AIPP gets with Andy. She remarks that this is
happening simultaneously and that the maps will be installed. Julie remarks that the soccer fields are not in the
program and thinks that it should be included. Michael asks about interactive solutions for way finding. Greg
remarks that the final consistent map has been a big discussion. The map is collaboration between the VLMD,
town, chamber, VR, etc. so that it is available for all media from print to apps. The issue with interactive is that
you are buying the hardware and software and it has a limited lifespan. They are looking at options with the
media. Molly asks Todd about the ideal timing for the portal program. Todd comments where the town is in the
process with the park improvements. The restroom and playground should be completed by the end of June.
He thinks it would be beneficial for all to have the way finding and portal package to be in place this year. It will
complete the pieces of the puzzle. Molly confirms that it is in this year’s budget. Andy comments that it is
feasible, but we need to get going. The installation could happen within this year. Kathy asks if we approve
Andy’s proposal to move forward with the project. Julie asks if it is AIPP to approve, as it is not within our
budget. Kathy confirms with Greg that AIPP has been given the authority to move forward with the portal
program. Michael confirms that Andy’s proposal will include all of the moving parts within the project. Greg
comments that Ford Park is very specific with the map that it will use. It will be refined, but is specific to Ford
Park, so the capital investment is limited. The interactive aspect is a bigger community decision. He remarks
that Ford Park is in desperate need of signage and we are ready to install the way finding and portals at this
time. Interactive can later be integrated. Margaret comments that when this is discussed with Council that it
should be clear that the interactive can be later integrated as the solution and that the way finding is the
present need. Molly remarks that Andy’s presence today is to focus on artful entry portals and not the way
finding, nor interactive map concepts. Greg confirms that is the case. Andy remarks that he is always reaching
towards timeless parts of the landscape and architecture which will not change. The basic way of getting to the
park will not change, as it is a fundamental of the terrain. The artful pieces are a part of the terrain and will
serve as landmarks. This can be set up with identifying the routes to the park versus the way finding. Andy’s
proposal for the Ford Park portal program is approved unanimously by the board.
5. Skate Park – Todd Oppenheimer
Molly asks Todd to update the board on the status of the skate park before he leaves the meeting. Todd
remarks that a staff recommendation to the Council will be made on April 21 to contract with California Skate
Park. The site, full budget and contract will need to be authorized by the Council at this meeting. Margaret asks
about the site. Todd remarks that they have been looking for locations for decades that will accommodate
everyone’s concerns and needs. The skate park companies that have been involved think it is interesting and
dynamic. None have expressed any concerns and are excited about the site and project. Molly comments that
she has heard lots of enthusiasm to use this space from the public.
5. Cheryl Peters, Artful Sol Gallery – Sculptures by Miki for Temporary Art Program (TAP)
Molly reminds the board that Cheryl was present a couple meetings ago to learn about the TAP and to present
the work of an artist as a possibility for TAP on the International Bridge. Molly remarks that the fees are the
responsibility of the exhibitor regarding the installation which includes the cement pad $500 - $750 (materials,
labor, forming, install) by the town of Vail. The physical installation of the sculpture is the responsibility of the
exhibitor and not the town. Molly shows images of the locations and the artwork that Cheryl would like the
board to review. Cheryl believes her artist Miki would be fabulous. It would be a great thing for the town of Vail
to be open minded to abstract contemporary art. He is willing to have two large pieces of art on display on the
International Bridge – the SE and SW planters. Molly remarks that the location is what the board will discuss
today. Cheryl shows image of the red sculpture that is an oval configuration that is 56 x 63 inches with a depth
of 18 inches. She remarks that it would be great above her bench “her office” that would still give visibility of
the creek on the SE planter. It is also stable if any one climbs on it. She then shows the second piece that is 82
inches high by 42 inches wide and 22 inches deep. It is proposed for the SW location. She remarks that he is
well known internationally with a display at the Mandalay in Paris. She said that he is up and coming. She
comments that she has insurance coverage that she has sent to Molly. Molly remarks that she has sent Cheryl
an example of the Art Revocable License to review prior to this meeting. Julie asks about the display length of
time. Kathy comments it is presently a year contract. Cheryl comments that we can have the works for an
extended length of display. Molly asks where the works are presently. They works are at his studio in Mexico.
Molly then comments that the length of the agreement is for the board to determine. Cheryl remarks that with
the transport of the sculpture a year may not make fiscal sense. Cheryl asks about the length of the
Tobolowsky on the bridge. Molly remarks that particular work is permanent as it was donated to the town’s
collection. Cheryl says that they can donate the works. Kathy remarks that is a separate discussion, but Cheryl
would like to discuss that option now. Kathy responds that there is quite a bit of discussion and it is not likely
that is even where they would be placed permanently. Julie asks about other available works. Cheryl
comments that there are multitudes of works, but these are the two that are ready and she is open minded to
the locations. Kathy comments that we need to consider sites not near Artful Sol. Cheryl would not be
interested in Lionshead and would rather be in Vail village near her gallery. She comments again that she
could donate the works which is an agreement for her and her artist, but moving the works around within a
year is crazy. Molly comments that it happens all the time with the TAP and explains Cogswell’s agreement as
an example. Margaret confirms that he renews his lease annually. Molly comments that we need to be mindful
of lengthy contracts on the International Bridge, as they are highly visible locations that AIPP utilizes for our
temporary display of artwork. She would be hesitant to have a contract that would prohibit AIPP from
opportunities to display work. She reminds the board that the town’s property to display work is limited. Julie
thinks that we should keep some of the planters free for AIPP display. Cheryl asks what AIPP is which the
board clarifies. She thinks that the galleries should have priority and there are gallery sculptures displayed
everywhere in Vail. Molly explains that those sculptures are on private property and it is an agreement between
the galleries and the private property owners. Molly remarks that is something she should consider if there is
private property abutting her gallery, she could always approach the owner. Cheryl comments that is not a
possibility. Kathy remarks that the TAP is set up for a year’s lease and if any longer would have to be
discussed. Molly reminds the board that the town of Vail public works crew does not touch the privately owned
artwork. Bill asks what the town actually gains from leasing the planter. Molly comments that it is just the lease
of the planter, which is $250 for the Cogswell agreement. Margaret explains the history of the TAP. He asks
about the value of the works. Cheryl comments that they are $80,000 and $60,000. Bill remarks that we should
lease the site for $1,000 for a year and end the discussion. Molly comments that the 2 % of a sold work was
once in these agreements, but it was not being adhered to in the past. From her research, when that
percentage was removed from the contract, a $1,000 fee was applied to the lease. Margaret questions why we
just don’t accept the donation. Kathy remarks that it is a separate discussion. Molly remarks that adding to the
collection is a more involved conversation. Molly explains that if we are going to consider a donation, we need
a full understanding of the artist, the career of the artist, the value, and how it will enhance the collection as a
whole. It requires thoughtful research and discussion. She then comments that we have not even seen the
works in person. Cheryl thinks that we should do the lease for a year and figure it out. Amanda likes the red
sculpture, but that it should go on the SW planter for a year. Kara agrees. Amanda thinks the SE planter will
obstruct views, especially with the creek activity. Julie thinks a year lease and would consider a donation. If we
accept the donation we could always sell it. She asks if she is prepared to pay the $1,000 and Cheryl agrees.
Cookie comments that she needs to see the work. Cheryl comments that the black work will also work in the
location. Molly comments that the Colorado Loops were in these locations which were very open and airy. Bill
comments one year, one piece. Michael comments that he agrees that the SE planter will be a detriment to the
experience of the creek activities. He thinks the color is offensive to the entire creek experience. He likes the
red because it is less obtrusive than the black sculpture and that a one year lease is fine. Margaret likes the art
and that he is of Mexican nationality. She is also concerned about the location and if it were to fall. She thinks
the west side would make most sense and that we should later discuss a donation which is a generous offer.
Molly comments that it is premature to accept a work without seeing it and by having a work on TAP might
offer us that option. Kathy remarks that we want to stick with what is being proposed, but Julie would like to
see other options. The board votes to have the SW planter with one work on view for a year’s lease. Cheryl
disagrees. She thinks that all corners would look better with cohesiveness. Kathy remarks that the consensus
is to have the red sculpture on view for one year for the SW corner. The board motions to recommend a one
year lease for the red sculpture in the SW planter. Molly tells Cheryl that she will be in touch regarding timing of
the installation as she has been discussing the landscaping already with the town. Cheryl thinks May will work
well.
6. TAP art review at VPL
Molly explains the anonymous process for the selection of the TAP for the placement of art above the fireplace
at the Vail Public Library. The exhibition time is April 13 – July 13 and the next is July 13 – October 12. We do
have a group show Sept 16 – Oct 15. As we get closer to the group exhibition we may want to reach out to all
of the artists who have participated in the past. Molly shows images of previously selected works so that the
board can see the scale in relation to the space. She then shows the three images that have been submitted.
Image #1 is Heart of the Warrior, 2006, acrylic on canvas, 29 x 23. Image #2 An Evening at Terra Bistro, oil on
canvas, 30 x 30 inches. Image #3 Incidental Series: An imitation of art that happens naturally in a sign shop,
spray paint on PVC board, 34 x 42 inches. She then goes to the board to get their votes one-on-one. There is
a tie, so the board votes again. The board selects image #3 Incidental Series: An imitation of art that happens
naturally in a sign shop. Molly then tells the board that the artists are Ellen Dwyer, Patricia Donovan, and
Harold Hilley. Molly comments that she wants to ensure that artists are not discouraged for not being selected.
Kathy comments that we should review previous selections to see if there are some we would want to ask to
resubmit.
7. Vail ART Pass
Molly comments that Amanda was with her at the community meeting and we had a number of people
interested to sign up to receive information about the launch of the program. Today she would like to get
feedback from the board about the program. She would like to review the mission of the program with the
board prior to launching. We have it described as: A community of individuals with a passion for the visual arts.
The Vail ART Pass will engage members through programing to stimulate interest in the visual arts. Members
will enjoy: tours of private art collections, museum exhibitions, art receptions, artist studio visits, films, book
discussions, lectures, etc. We would find those interested in the Vail Valley to enjoy this camaraderie,
community and programming for the visual arts. It will be a sort of social network. We need to decide a
membership and how that will be outlined in the program. In looking at other similar groups, they often have a
membership fee and then fees associated with certain events, be it transportation or food or admittance. We
could have the membership fee offer preferred access and then if there is room we can open up programs to
non-members. Perhaps there could be a cost for members and then a separate cost for non-members if space
allows on particular programs. She asks the board what they would like. Michael thinks $50 sounds
appropriate for a year’s membership. Cookie then confirms that the fees for each program would then be
added. Amanda explains that we have been working with CME to get wholesale costs for transportation which
would be worked into the event costs to cover AIPP. The membership would be a donation to AIPP. Michael
remarks that we are trying to recover costs related to communications. Molly confirms that is the case. We
would want to cover marketing, advertising, and time for events that would take the members outside of the
Town of Vail. Molly remarks that there are many people who can support AIPP in other capacities who live
outside of Vail perhaps volunteering, but truly to engage the entire community. Amanda thinks that $50 sounds
appropriate as well. Kathy thinks we should look at $35 to $45. Julie does not think that there should be a fee.
Amanda remarks that there definitely needs to be a fee to participate in the events. Julie remarks that she
rarely renews her memberships. She thinks that we could have patron donations who would get first crack at
spots on the programs. Michael thinks that ART Pass connotes a membership or pass. Molly explains to the
board how we decided on Vail ART Pass for the name of the group. She remarks that she queried many
individuals with the various options: alliance, league, group, guild, club, and all were nixed for various reasons.
Vail ART Pass is a play on where we live and the art passes that people can purchase when visiting big cities
to visit multiple cultural destinations. Since we will be traveling outside of Vail – Vail ART Pass was favored as
a catchy and unique option for the program’s name. The program will provide journeys to explore the visual
arts. Margaret comments about the reciprocity of the BFAG membership of $50 with other garden
memberships. Is this something that AIPP should explore with major museums. Amanda comments that
getting you private tours is what is special about the program. Molly comments that it is all about access and
organization. Amanda questions what the trade would be from Vail for the reciprocity. Molly thinks that
membership would offer control in cultivating a focused group. Perhaps it is something that we could explore
as the group evolved to have a tandem association with other cultural programs in Vail. Benefits and
partnerships down the road could potentially be with: Alpine Arts Center, Dance Festival, Jazz Festival, Bravo!,
BFAG. Michael comments that the membership benefits should be decided and then we determine the costs.
Kathy comments that she would like to know what she is getting for the $50. Molly remarks that foremost you
are getting someone who is organizing and providing access for you to these curated events. Kathy would like
to know what is on the calendar and to see the dates, programs, and events. Amanda remarks that we can
come up with three or four summer events and explore reciprocity. Julie remarks that communication should
be inclusive of all. Amanda agrees that in forming the program it is really to engage those who live down valley
and want to be involved in Vail’s cultural scene, as well as second home owners and also guests. Molly
remarks that the membership would go towards advertising. Margaret thinks we need to work on pricing with
the Vail Daily. Amanda remarks that the town interest at the community interest was very strong which exhibits
that we are lacking this type of program. Molly asks the board what they would like to do for this year’s AIPP
ad in the Bravo program. Bravo Ad: We give non-profits 25% off current prices. The rate for a ¼ page price
would be $787.50. The rate for a ½ page price would be $1560.00. Julie confirms that this would be on the
website. Molly confirms that this will be online. The board agrees that a half page would be worthwhile in
launching the Vail ART Pass program.
5. Summer Programming
Molly reminds the board to feel free to recommend artists, programs, events for AIPP consideration. Molly
passes around the Denver Post which features the work of Michael Grab. We could host him for a weekend
event along the Gore Creek. He is recognized throughout the world for his balancing of rocks. It is a live
performance and temporary installation where he uses rock from the creek. Bill asks about the costs. Molly
confirms that he is $600 a day and then lodging. Kathy remarks that many years ago someone stacked cairns
near Matterhorn. Kathy asks if we are able to legally do this on the creek in the space by the Gore Creek
Promenade. It is a natural process. He only balances the rocks in the area and the rocks then fall back into the
water. It is a temporary performance. Kathy asks Molly to confirm with Greg that we are able to access that
area of the creek. Molly comments that she has sent images of this area of the creek which is highly visible to
the artist. People could observe from the pedestrian bridge and the green open space area along the creek. It
would be likely in July and along the edges so it would not interfere with creek activity. Kathy asks Molly to
check with the town to make sure we can access the creek. Molly shows the board his website. He could
incorporate his photography into a weekend event. The board remarks that it is very cool and worthwhile to
bring him to Vail. He would like to shot July 11/12, but may be possible to do July 25/26. Molly remarks that a
weekend event would be within the budget. Margaret asks about the creek in Ford Park. It has been discussed
and the area along the promenade will have more visibility. Molly reminds the board that it is a natural event
and that the rocks can fall from simple wind. We could have signage around explaining the artist and
performance. Perhaps we can have his photography displayed nearby. Amanda comments it is about the
performance and not longevity of the balancing. Julie motions that we book Michael Grab for a weekend event
in July or August. Kara suggests reaching out to Sweet Basil to perhaps have a reception and display of the
photography.
6. Art-spiration - Park Entries
Molly shows slides of park entries for this month’s art-spiration. It was difficult to find artistically branded park
entries and signage. It was a challenge to find any consistent branding for a park online. She does comment
that Andy’s work did come up while searching. Michael comments that we need to be mindful of scale as to not
block views.
7. Coordinator updates and winter programs review
Molly remarks that the ordinance reducing the size of the board from 9 to 7 members passed. The
board will be more consistent in size with the other boards. With that, the expectation from Council is to
ensure active board participation and attendance. Molly reminds the board to openly participate and
bring programming ideas to the meetings. We want everyone to feel comfortable in participating and
that everyone has an equal voice.
Board Project Leads/Liaisons
We would like to have a board member be point persons for particular AIPP projects. Molly has
proactively been reaching out to board members who have expressed interest in particular projects.
Molly asks the board members to let her know if there is something that they would like to serve as the
liaison to please feel free to let her know. As of now the liaisons are: Ford Park Portals – Kathy;
Skatepark – Kara; Vail ART Pass – Amanda; Social Media/Marketing – Michael. Projects pending:
Underpass, Village Welcome Center, Strata/Lion and Gallery Liaison.
Bird of Paradise to be installed this week
Strata/The Lion – starting the public art process. $70,000 is what they will be spending on their public
art.
Wall Street Riddles – All of the stones will be removed during construction phase of Wall Street. Stones
to come to public works and Molly will find an artist to paint them while in the shops.
Deer screen with Elaine Kuntz’s art for Dowd’s Junction to open Friday, April 10. It will be printed on
both sides.
Triumph/Logan Winterfest 2014/15 – The board should start thinking about future funding. Molly has
has heard a lot of interest in bringing back the ice theater.
I-70 underpass project, Tom Kassmel asked Molly to get direction from the board regarding the public
art. She mentions that the headlight screen on the south side was directed to be artistic at the last
council meeting. Council recommended $35,000 be used to enhance the screen artistically. Right now
the screen may be anywhere from 40 to 80 feet long. It was noted as highly visible and good
opportunity for art. Molly asks the board if they would rather have a larger portion of the 1% go towards
this feature upon budget? If so, would the $35,000 be above and beyond the 1% for allocated art?
Molly remarks that 3 feet adjacent to the ground would need to be CDOT worthy. The art can certainly
get feathered into the ground as long as the cement barrier is in place. Margaret remarks that there is
one home that is being impacted by the headlights. Molly shows images of the plans for the underpass.
Molly comments that in reviewing previous minutes it was discussed by several board members that
the headlight screen would be the most visible location for public art in the underpass project. Molly
asks if this is still the interest from the board. Julie comments that the screen would have the most
visibility versus your experience while driving beneath underpasses and the art goes unnoticed. Molly
comments the railing design could be a potential location. Kathy comments that since we are in the
concept plans at this phase, it is premature to finalize how much of the 1% should be allocated towards
the screen or other potential public art features. Julie comments that we need to see if it is approved.
Kathy thinks we can define potential areas for public art including the screen. Molly comments that she
can identify the potential for art projects: railing design, headlight screen and bridge abutments. The
board agrees that the Council directed $35,000 would go towards the screen and the public art features
would be allocated from to the 1% of total project costs.
Vail Village Welcome Center – There is $25,000 set aside for the welcome center’s public art. Now that
the welcome center is up and functioning we are revisiting how the public art may be incorporated.
Molly comments that the interior designer on the project identified the empty atrium spot above the
desk. It would be an opportunity as the wall space is limited. We could look at a kinetic or hanging type
of artwork. The interior designer did talk to Helen Heibert about a project. Julie asks if I have any mobile
artists in mind. Bill asks about installing light and sound in the passageway. Julie asks if there is too
much sun in the space that we should be careful with materials. Margaret asks if Logan had any
mobiles. Kathy has concern for maintenance with paper. The board directs Molly to put together an
RFP for the project.
Meeting adjourned.