Consideration of a Recommendation from the Cultural Arts Commission to Decline the Donation and End the Lease of the Surf Ascension Sculpture in North Manhattan Beach and Remove Artwork from the Public Domain August 19, 2025
Agreement
April 4, 2023 Resolution No. 23-0038 approved the installation, location, and a $9,000 allocation from the PAF to support installation, light shows, and a maintenance contingency Recommendation
On May, 19 2025 the Cultural Arts Commission reviewed the one-year lease of Surf Ascension and has recommended the removal of the artwork Background
August 19, 2025
Surf Ascension
Remove artwork
With the loan agreement set to expire on July 1, 2025, the Cultural Arts Commission recommended ending the temporary lease and removing the artwork at their May 19, 2025 Cultural Arts Commission meeting Reasons for removal:
Fragile
Coordinating with artist for light shows
Repair difficulties
Fiscal impacts
Recommended Option
August 19, 2025
Surf Ascension
1. Extend loan agreement
Pros
Maintains public access to the artwork; defers permanent maintenance obligations Cons
Requires new funding allocation; continued logistical coordination with artist for light shows
2. Accept donation
Pros
Adds a large-scale artwork to the City’s permanent collection; reinforces cultural investment in North Manhattan Beach; no future lease costs Cons
City assumes long-term responsibility and financial liability for maintenance and repairs, including for custom materials Alternative Options
August 19, 2025
Surf Ascension