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HomeMy WebLinkAboutFebruary 1, 2016 Minutes Minutes: Art in Public Places Board Meeting Monday, February 1, 2016, 8:30 a.m.,Town Council Chambers AIPP board members present: Cookie Flaum, Julie Hansen, Kathy Langenwalter, Michael Kurz, Bill Pierce, Kara Woods, Amanda Zinn AIPP Board members absent: Others present: Molly Eppard AIPP Coordinator ________________________________ 1. Approval of minutes from January 4 meeting. 2. No citizen input. 3. Rodrigo (Rocky) Cortina of The Lion Vail (Lionshead Inn/Strata) – Public Art Presentation Molly remarks about the AIPP guidelines in the town code upon which the AIPP board will refer when reviewing the presentation today for the public art incorporated into The Lion development. Molly comments that they have been very active and thorough with regards to the process for incorporating public art into the project. Molly introduces Jonathan Spence from Comm. Dev. who is present today, as he is the contact for this development project. Michael asks if it has been through PEC already. Molly comments that the art is to be approved by the AIPP board. Jonathan remarks that it has been through PEC as far as a development plan. Rocky introduces himself to the board as the substitute for the curator who was to be present today. He shows several plans of the project to the board. He orients the board to the location where the sculpture will be placed. The developers decided the best location for the art is on the corner across from the bus stop across from concert hall plaza and adjacent to the commercial/restaurant space. It is also near the drive entry to the parking for the development. He shows the landscape plan which will vary a bit from what they are looking at today. The sculpture is 12 feet tall by 4 ½ feet wide. The board reviews the presentation about the artist. The art has been commissioned through the Casalamm Galeria of Mexico. The investors of this development are from Mexico. They are very familiar with the array of art within Vail and have had great interest in this aspect of the project. The artist, Jose Antonio Gurtubay, has been on site to see the area. He show the work which is made in copper. Molly comments that it is in bronze according to the documented work. Rocky remarks that it is indeed in bronze rather than copper. Kathy asks about the depth. It appears to be 23 inches in depth. Molly comments that it would likely be the depth of the plate. Molly recommends using an anchoring system for secure engineering. Rocky comments that it will be engineered correctly so that it is safely suppo rted as well as lit. Julie asks about climbing on the work and if the artist will be on hand for any maintenance. Rocky confirms that the artist will be present for the installation and the investors have a keen interest in assuring this work stands out. The same group will be installing art throughout the property, so it is of great interest to them. Molly asks for any comments or questions from the board. Cookie asks about the space surrounding the work and snow. Rocky remarks that the sidewalk is snow melted. Michael believes the site and location are great, but contextually he does not believe the rationale is there with the explanation of the work. He remarks about the name of the building does not see how it relates to the building. He does not see it as standing out. Bill disagrees. He likes the work and location. He would like to see more work like this versus a bronze lion. He would like to see exactly where it goes in regards to landscaping. Cookie agrees with Bill. She likes it because it is different. She wants to make sure it fits in with the entire landscape. Rocky agrees. Kathy asks about the budget. The budget is $70,000, but Rocky explains that it is $75,000 to commission this work. Kathy likes that it is different. Her only concern would be about the structural integrity since it will likely be enticing for kids to climb. She would not want to see it become a maintenance burden for the owners. Julie likes the sculpture and compliments them on the work. She wants to just make sure they protect it from damage. Kara also likes it, as does Amanda. Molly comments that she does not have concerns particularly to the sculpture. She thinks the work is unique, so it is an opportunity to have a different style of sculpture in Vail. She remarks it may seem more Aztecan versus being directly related to Coloradoan Native Americans. Rocky agrees and believes there could be some artistic interpretation in the description. Molly compliments the team at The Lion who have been very thoughtful about the public art integration. She also compliments Lisa Vogele who she has been in contact with the about the art. Bill motions that we approve the art as presented. He asks Molly to review the location and to come to the board with any concerns. Rocky will share the final landscape plan to make sure all are in agreement. The board agrees with Michael opposing. The motion is approved for the art with the location coming back for final board review. Julie asks if a plaque will be located near the sculpture. Michael asks Rocky to explain the title “Nocht.” While he did research it, he has not personally met the artist but will inquire when he meets him. Cookie asks about the lamppost. The light will be considered when the work is installed. 4. Chevo Studios – Andy Dufford & Todd Oppenheimer (TOV) Booth Creek Playground Andy Dufford is present to discuss the artistic element of the playground for the Booth Creek Park. Todd Oppenheimer discusses the location for the park and where the TOV is at present with the project. We are at 50% of the design development plans for the park in its entirety. The playground had a public workshop several weeks ago. The inspiration came directly from the charette and what the kids would like to see in the playground. Chevo is creating the artistic component of the playground. The playground will also have a log teepee, climbers, etc. Today we are presenting the art component before the board and can return at a later date to see the playground as it evolves in the entirety of the park. Molly explains that today we are only looking at the playground and the artistic elements as presented by Chevo. Andy comments about the spectacular geology of the location. The neighbors expressed the interest in natural materials. The kids had fantastic ideas. Many of our ideas come from the inspiration from the kids. The kids liked climbing walls, passageways, teepees and no railings. It all looked fun, so we tried to keep that spirit. The staff walked away with the teepee element and Chevo walked away with the geology and climbing elements. They went to Salida to look for boulders. They found extraordinary large granite boulders. Andy reads a description of the geology behind these stones as written by his studio assistant Brandon Meehl who has a masters in geology. He sees the rocks as constantly changing with movement. He discusses the folding of the rocks as they experienced heat and pressure over the unforgiving geologic history of Colorado. He shows a layout of the playground with the teepee and how the boulders are set as two parallel rectangles. They want to show the sensation of a canyon and pass-through. There will be a connection between the teepee and the boulder. There will also be a connection above the canyon with a twisted net. This will create a sense of intrigue with the placement of the boulders. The layout of the boulders will reveal the history of the stone. Andy would like to use carving to highlight that process. Through the manipulation of the surface of the stone the patterns are revealed speaking to that geology. Granit offers many possibilities in the carving and surface of the stone. It can also create an inner beauty to the idea of the canyon. Andy asks for any feedback and comments from the board. Todd remarks that safety guidelines will be met with all of the playground elements. Michael likes the idea of telling the story of the stone. He thinks it fits beautifully. Julie asks why rocks from the area are not used. Andy comments that there may be opportunities to use other stones present at the location for other elements of the park. For this structure we need very large rocks. Julie asks if the description may be integrated into the space. Andy agrees that this would add to an educational element which could compliment the work. The carving is suggestive versus literal. He thinks it could be a nice addition which can be dialed into the 100% design consideration. Bill, Cookie, Kara, and Amanda all like it as well. The board approves unanimously the artistic design and proposal for Booth Creek Playground as presented. 5. Chevo Studios – Andy Dufford & Greg Hall, Todd Oppenheimer (TOV) - Ford Park Portal Entries Andy explains that we are still in a place of making choices. Today he would like to review the goals and review the work to date. He will then share staff priorities showing revised locations, concepts, estimated costs, and alternatives for moving forward. The portals project is complimentary, but different to way-finding. The portals express the identity of the park at its edges. The direction is coming from the current condition. There are wooden signs, misleading signs (do not enter), and temporary signs. The present signs do not speak to the richness that is within the park. There is difficulty in the multiple locations for entry to the park. There is now an emerging visual vocabulary – stone and metal with high-level detailing and handwork. The improvements within the park have led to this vocabulary. There are three levels of portals discussed thus far: A – a signature entry/announcement of the park, a gateway with perhaps lighting and highest level of detailing and handwork; B – a bit more pedestrian, still keeping the idea of use of stone and detailing but it steps it down to the pedestrian level; C - expressing the park along the way, just enough to take the vocabulary out to the edges. We looked previously at this coordinated system with prices of A $100,000, B $40,000, C $1,600. The previous presentation tallied to an approximate amount of nearly $1,000,000. Staff took the lead on how to bring this presentation down a level to a more comfortable budget. The staff suggested: one level “A” with a budget of $80,000 in proximity to the concession; four level “B” entries at $40,000 at East Betty Ford Way, West Betty Ford Way, Manor Vail and the Nature Center; and two “C” level at $3,000 at Covered Bridge and Creek Walk at Vail Valley Drive. This cost totaled $246,000. Andy then shows comparative designs of what these portals would potentially look like at these budgets and locations. “A” includes the metal work, hand carving, but no light on this particular example. These are not yet designed as we need to confirm the direction. These are actually works that can be done for the costs that staff assigned. He then shows the “B” zone with the pedestrian experience. At the Nature Center he believes it needs verticality for the auto experience as well. It also includes the metal work. Manor Vail will also have some verticality due to the vehicle and pedestrian interface. The “C” levels are the simplest pieces. At West Betty Ford Way this portal is more comparable to the example at the Nature Center, but modified in a horizontal design. With this direction we are at $290,000 for budget. To hit the $250,000 we are going to have to eliminate a “B” and he suggests changing Manor Vail to a “C.” Julie agrees and asks who owns this land. It is explained that this bit of land is a right-of-way and a pedestrian easement. Andy shows the alternatives. He would also explain that when reviewing the goals, he would like to discuss what we are losing. Another option would be look at the commitment to legacy. The improvements made in the park are for legacies and beyond. We lost illumination with the lower budget. He explains the nighttime illumination provides richness and identity in the evening to the park. We have also traded away scale. He thinks the scale of the program in these spaces merit larger works. Julie clarifies that this is a town of Vail budget and AIPP is only to approve the artistic design. Andy believes this project is being run through AIPP to bring something artful to the park in its identity. He now suggests as an alternative is to look at a legacy project like gateways to the park. Originally this project and budget was much more in keeping with that notion. He thinks there is reason to pause and examine the options, so that we do it right it will only have to be done once. He would encourage the board and town to make that choice as an investment in the park for a legacy. Greg Hall comments that when we first saw the big vision the direction from the board was that it was too large and to scale it down. Todd and Molly then saw places where it could be scaled down from the original presentation. The budget at present is $250,000. Greg explains that if the board feels it needs to be more, it will have to come as a request for funding to town council. He remarks that we wanted to see what this budget would get us for the project. Molly comments that some of the locations were being duplicated where the way finding and maps are integrated. We wanted to look at the key locations also in order to scale down the project, as directed by the board after the last presentation. Kathy comments that the locations are perfect. Julie asks if it can be phased. Greg comments that if it is something we want whether we decide t o phase may look like the project is unfinished. Todd remarks that in regards to construction it may be best to look at the park as a whole. It is better to have it completed at once versus more frequent construction projects. Michael comments that we also run the risk of different councils not approving phased projects. Kathy asks approximately what lighting would cost. Andy wants to be careful in giving an exact figure as much of it is dependent on where the electrical exists. To add lighting by the conce ssion stand location would be an estimate of $10,000. Andy remarks that the larger issue is scale specifically at the concession stand and East Betty Ford Way. He thinks that the entry at the East Betty Ford Way is an enormous space where people enter for performances via the parking lot or the bus drop off. He thinks we should do projects worthy of the park and programs. Kathy asks about the location because she does not experience the entry from this location. Amanda remarks that she parks in the structure and takes the shuttle busses. She comments that the busses have been extremely successful. She thinks that to have it illuminated and provide seating it would certainly be used given the increased access now provided by the free busses for performances. Kara remarks that also during the day that people wander around the parking lots and tennis courts not knowing to go down the East Betty Ford Way access point. Andy believes it requires a scale commensurate with the space. Julie compliments his images of previous works. Kara and Michael remark that we need to go to council and ask for more funding for the project. Michael comments that we need to look at the strategy for the park. These portals set the tone for the park as a whole. It also acknowledges the contributions President Ford made to the Vail community. We need to examine our strategy that these are artful enhancements to the town versus plopped signs. He thinks the council needs to see the way-finding versus the opportunity of the artful legacy. He thinks the $250,000 should be shown and then the opportunity to create something more artful and legacy. Kathy questions the gateway and where it would best be situated in the park. Her question is the marker at Betty Ford Way East and why it should require a larger marker. Andy believes the front door is in proximity to the concession stand. He comments it is what you see from the Frontage Road and it is the central entrance. Amanda remarks about the busses stopping in this location. Julie remarks that West Betty Ford Way is where one first enters by foot. Andy agrees this one is a struggle because it is the closest to the Village, but the vehicular access needs to be addressed as well. Molly wants the board to keep in mind as an entry point it is only pedestrian and we do not want to confuse vehicles. Molly hesitates remarking that if the sign is too large at this point of entry, cars will slam on breaks and there could be accidents. Andy reminds the board that the “A’s” are important as border entries and have different characteristics. Kathy asks to see a photo of the concession stand. Andy stands behind his suggestions from his first meeting with the board. The West Betty Ford Way, Concession Stand, East Betty Ford Way, and the Nature Center are the key entry points. Kathy questions where people going to the playground park. Todd responds that it all depends on the events taking place at the park. If it is a regular day, you park in the Ford Park Parking lot and make your way into the park. Amanda reminds the board that the shuttle busses have been a great success and it puts people into the center of the park. Andy explains that you can also access the Gardens and Playground from this entry point. Julie asks about entering the parking lot and whether you would drive past this level “A.” Amanda comments that this entrance is being used more frequently. Greg comments about the 50 parking spots in front of the tennis courts and that we push a lot of people through this entry point to the park. Greg comments there is the edge of the park and once you pass through this you have entered Ford Park. Kathy wants to see the birds- eye view and how it relates to all of the parking lots. Todd comments that the question of the front door to Ford Park is something we have been grappling with for 10 years. Kathy does not see this as an entry point to the park. Julie comments that since they have lived in Vail so long it may be unfamiliar as an entrance. Andy remarks it is the literally located in the center of the park. It is visible from the Frontage Road and it is between the playing fields, as well as the parking lots. Andy sees it as the location for something of scale to be placed as it speaks to the architectural and artistic announcement of the park. Kathy agrees, but does not see it as a gateway. Bill comments that it is the best location to have a significant marker. It is the spot where there is more activity, tennis, concession, playing fields, busses, etc. He remarks that it is an essential location. He drives past the park daily and to have something of more significance at West Betty Ford Way is going to cause confusion for vehicles. He thinks anything larger would be a big mistake. He thinks the point is well taken that the scale is too small for the size. He thinks we should have lighting on the concession stand entry so it can be identified. Michael comments there needs to be an announcement that causes curiosity from this point and the promise of the park. Kara remarks that we should look at the effectiveness of what is being proposed. Andy agrees about the language of speaking to the promise of the park. He comments that the portals are landmarks and speak to the richness of the park at the edges and are not way-finding. While there are limits as to what can be done, reducing the entire program is missing an opportunity. For visitors, the Frontage Road is critical as you only see playing fields. Something needs to be done on this face. Todd asks the board to find a recommendation to take to the town council f or an increased budget for this project. Greg and Todd comment that it comes from the board as their job if it is something to which they feel strongly. If there is a recommendation from the board which is a dollar amount or is it an approach to council these are important at the various levels? Scale, illumination, and levels of sculptural detail can be issued in a memo to town council if that is a request coming from the board. Kathy asks the board to discuss whether they are in agreement, excluding dollar amounts, of the priorities of these locations. Amanda remarks that Betty Ford Way East should be more. Andy believes this is true as well. Julie remarks she would like to see something at the Rugby Fields. The staff comments that this has been included in way-finding. Kathy asks about the amounts and if they have to be equal. Andy comments that he has brought minimal amounts for artistic entries and if the town wants signs then a sand blasting company can be brought in to do so. Todd comments that the locations and level can be agreed upon and leave the design up to the artist. Kathy does not want price tags put on each location, but rather parameters. Bill suggests going through each example. Andy comments that the Manor Vail entrance causes confusion, as people think it is private property. Molly asks Andy how he would like for the board to communicate their direction. In the most constructive manner each portal needs to be designed in its specific location. Final design is the next step. He feels East Betty Ford Way needs to be increased. Manor Vail should remain the same with the illumination outside of the use of the park during daylight hours creates a marker for new comers. As a person moving through the landscape, you construct your own map with these visuals. Molly asks about the works at Fort Collins. Kathy and Bill comment about the sign code and illumination. Andy remarks that these are artful portals and they are not signs. There is a big difference between the two. In moving ahead, over the past year Andy hopes that he has established a level of trust. He is thinking deeply, listening to feedback, and making adjustments. This is a continuing commitment as we move forward. What he is hearing today is that if we try to squeeze this into the present budget it will be underwhelming. What he is hearing is how to create the project at a legacy level. He would like to have the artistic space to do the best work possible. If it is design by committee, he will not be able to do that for us. He will bring it back for feedback, but if it is to be brought back we cannot tie his hands because you will not get the best work. He has been hired to consider this project carefully. Kathy thanks Andy. She comments that if we go to council we need to have the project with a recommendation for an amount. She is looking at $480,000 as a reasonable amount to come up with a solid solution for this project. Michael thinks there are two strategies. If the sculptural strategy can be accomplished in this amount it is fine. He thinks we are directing Andy beyond direction. It would be worth it for the artist to return with the artful improvements in getting to the park. Greg comments that if there is a strong recommendation coming forward that is why the board is appointed. Molly remarks that we should trust the amount of time Andy has spent in researching this project and time spent in the park. Molly reminds the board in consideration of East Betty Ford Way, it is the location where the golf carts drop-off and pick-up guests. It seems like this would be a thoughtful way of providing an amenity for our guests with benches. Andy agrees. While it says entrance it also seems like a cool meeting place for guests. With this ball-park figure it would need to be a strong recommendation coming from this board. With looking at the total investment at Ford Park, as the jewel it is, it is important to have these artful portals. Andy will go forward to look at the project with this budget in mind. Michael comments that the “A, B, and C” may cause more confusion. Molly asks the board to look at West Betty Ford Way, would a seating element make it appear more pedestrian versus vehicular. Andy thinks the entire area needs to be addressed as a composition. He will consider it carefully. It all needs to be solved as one composition. Todd remarks that there may be opportunity to do so since the traffic pattern has changed. It is mostly exit. We may be looking at continuing the pavers up to this part of West Betty Ford Way. We will need to look at the whole. Kathy comments that to have seating in these areas makes sense. Molly comments that we need to have a special meeting for Andy versus the March 7 meeting, as we need to give 100% to the three artists coming to present for I-70 public art. Molly will email the board with possible dates for a special meeting with Andy for the next review of the Ford Park Portals. She will also look at the Council schedule. 6. Public Art Project Updates  Discussion of Vail I-70 Underpass finalists’ proposals will be at the March 7 board meeting. Kathy comments that we had great conversations with the artists and Tom Kassmel. She is excited to see the proposals at the March 7 meeting as they are all coming from different backgrounds and approaches. The stipend has been increased to $2,500 for each artist. The board randomly selects the order for the presentations: Adam Kuby, Gordon Huether, Vicki Scuri.  Skate park – We are installing the scaffolding in late April and installing the artwork in May. We were able to get additional funding for the scaffolding as we will also be addressing other issues on the walls. 7. Select art for over the fireplace at Library Molly shows the board images of past applicants for the art over the fireplace, as to ease up on the administrative work it takes her run this program with the library. The board selects Christine Sena and Steve Kiene for the next two months. The board agrees to rotate the works as presented. 8. Ski bench purchase for consideration from Chris Anthony Molly presents an image of an artistic ski bench for consideration for purchase. The monies would go towards his youth foundation. The price is $2,000. The board remarks it does not fit the criteria for qualifications for acquisition as set by the code. They offer suggestions to present it to the Ski Club or the Ski School at Vail Resorts. Meeting adjourned.