CITY OF COMMERCEAGENDA REPORTCITY OF COMMERCEAGENDA REPORT
CITY OF COMMERCE
AGENDA REPORT
CITY OF COMMERCE
AGENDA REPORT
Item No. Item No.
Item No.
Item No.
TO: Honorable City Council
FROM: City Manager
SUBJECT: Arts in Public Places Program and Artist Collaboration with Wynwood District Meeting Date: March 25, 2025
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council approve:
1) the invitation of two artists from the Wynwood District to visit the City of Commerce to evaluate the current state of arts in public places, provide expert recommendations, and propose future art installations, including wall art. 2) Additionally, the Arts in Public Places Committee has identified a building at Fungis Village Noodles, located at 2498 O’Neil Avenue, as the first site for a public art installation; 3) Approval of the additional art installation by Calixto Shibaja at the Atlantic and Goodrich location, with the total cost not to exceed $30,000.
BACKGROUND:
The City of Commerce recognizes the vital role of public art in enhancing the community’s visual appeal, fostering cultural expression, and promoting civic pride. The Arts in Public Places Committee has been actively working to integrate art into public spaces and has identified the need for professional input to guide future public art projects.
To support this initiative, the Arts in Public Places Committee proposes bringing in two experienced artists from the Wynwood District, a region renowned for its dynamic and innovative public art programs. While the Mayor and City staff recently visited two Arts Districts and gathered valuable ideas, professional insight from experienced artists would be highly beneficial for the City. These artists will evaluate existing public art, identify potential sites for new installations, and provide expert recommendations to shape the City’s long-term public art strategy. Their guidance will help ensure a cohesive and impactful approach to integrating public art into the community.
As part of this initiative, the Arts in Public Places Committee has identified Fungis Village Noodles, located at 2498 O’Neil Avenue, as the first site for a public art installation. This location was chosen due to its high visibility and potential to become a community landmark. The selected artists will provide input on the design, theme, and execution of the artwork to ensure it aligns with the City’s vision for public art.
The Arts in Public Places Committee is recommending an additional art piece by Calixto Shibaja at the Atlantic and Goodrich Bridge. Shibaja’s previous artworks, Holiday Season and Día de los Muertos, have received positive feedback from the community.
ANALYSIS:
Evaluation and Recommendations:
The visiting artists will assess the City’s current public art installations and provide recommendations for improvements.
They will identify key locations for future art projects based on factors such as community engagement, visibility, and cultural significance.
Public Art at Fungis Village Noodles:
The artists will collaborate with the Arts in Public Places Committee and local stakeholders to develop a concept that reflects the City’s identity and values.
Future Public Art Initiatives:
Based on the artists’ recommendations, the City can develop a long-term strategy for public art, potentially including murals, sculptures, and interactive art pieces.
Bringing in experienced artists from the Wynwood District will provide valuable insights into the City’s public art program and help shape a long-term vision for arts in public places. The potential artwork at Fungis Village Noodles is an exciting first step in enhancing the City’s aesthetic appeal and cultural landscape.
FISCAL IMPACT:
If the City Council accepts staff’s recommendation regarding this initiative, an appropriation from the City’s Art in Public Places cost center will need to be approved. The cost will include flights and a three-day stay in Commerce with the estimated expenses of $2,000 (flights at $600 and a three-night stay at $100 per night) The cost of the additional artwork at the Atlantic and Goodrich Bridge is recommended at not to exceed $30,000.
ALTERNATIVES:
Approve staff recommendation
Disapprove staff recommendation
Provide further direction to staff
RELATIONSHIP TO STRATEGIC GOALS:
This item is related to a specific 2016 Strategic Goal to “Develop and invest in infrastructure and beautification projects and support economic growth.” Prepared by: Lena Shumway, Director of Administrative Services and City Clerk Reviewed by: Vilko Domic, Assistant City Manager/Finance Director Approved as to form: Noel Tapia, City Attorney
Respectfully submitted: Ernie Hernandez, City Manager