Title
Artist Contract for 55th Avenue Promenade Public Art Project
Description
This report requests the Economic Development and Housing Subcommittee recommend City Council approval to enter into a contract with Creative Machines, Inc. for an amount not to exceed $300,000 to design, fabricate and install four public art structures along the promenade located on 55th Avenue between Camelback and Indian School roads in Phoenix.
THIS ITEM IS FOR CONSENT ACTION.
Report
Summary
The FY2023-28 Public Art Plan includes funding for artwork identified as Shade, Cooling and Heat Mitigation. In collaboration with the Parks and Recreation and Street Transportation departments, the 55th Avenue Promenade has been identified as the location for this initiative. Artwork will be located within the median greenspace along 55th Avenue, between Camelback and Indian School roads in District 5. The artwork will be made of durable materials that can survive the desert climate, include elements of shade in support of the City of Phoenix Cool Corridors Initiative, and enhance the pedestrian experience of this unique neighborhood amenity.
After reviewing a pool of 144 applicants, a three-person panel recommended Creative Machines as the selected artist. Creative Machines was recommended based on his experience creating site-specific public art projects and his demonstrated ability to involve the community in meaningful ways. Community engagement is at the center of public art projects when approved. The artist will work with the nearby neighborhood, schools, and community members on the project’s design.
The selection panel included:
- Leticia Castro, John F. Long Elementary School Principal;
- Andrea Ramirez, District 5 resident;
- Victoria Sajadi, Public Art Coordinator, Scottsdale Arts.
Financial Impact
The 55th Avenue Promenade public art project, under the title of Shade, Cooling and Heat Mitigation, is one of 42 projects in the FY2023-28 Public Art Plan that City Council approved on July 3, 2023. The proposed $300,000 budget will cover all costs related to the design, fabrication, and installation of the artwork. Additional funding in the Plan for this project covers staff time, contingency, and administrative costs. The funds for this project come from Street Transportation and Water Capital Funds.
Concurrence/Previous Council Action
The Phoenix Arts and Culture Commission reviewed and recommended this item for approval on Sept. 12, 2023, by a vote of 12-0 and one abstention.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Deputy City Manager Inger Erickson and the Office of Arts and Culture.