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7.8 PRSR 06-12-2019 The Elk River Vision A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity Request for Action To Parks and Recreation Commission Item Number 7.8 Agenda Section Action Item Meeting Date June 12, 2019 Prepared by Amanda Othoudt, EDD Item Description Public Art Installation Location Reviewed by Michael Hecker, Parks and Recreation Director Reviewed by Cal Portner, City Administrator Action Requested Discussion regarding public art installation and conformance with the Parks and Recreation Master Plan Public Arts Plan. Approve, by motion, the location of a public art installation in 2020. Background/Discussion On May 5, 2014, members of the Elk River Arts Community, city staff, and the Parks and Recreation Master Plan Planning Team met to review opportunities and potential locations and partnerships for public art in the city. Later that year, the EDA supported a public art initiative as part of the Powered by Nature brand. The initiative was established as a way to create a memorable and impactful addition to the city and to promote the brand. Artist Carl Zachmann was selected to build the Whimsical Windmill, which was unveiled on August 27, 2015. At their February 19, 2019, meeting, the EDA expressed interest in another public art installation. The Central MN Arts Board (CMAB) offers grant opportunities for the completion of well-planned, permanent or temporary works of public art that are accessible to the general public without cost. The EDA is seeking support of the Parks and Recreation Commission for a public art installation as it conforms to the Elk River Public Arts Plan. If the Parks and Recreation Commission is supportive of this initiative, one of the first steps would be to identify a potential location for the installation. Locations identified are places where public art displays would likely be most engaged and should be highly trafficked areas. The Elk River Public Arts Plan describes a variety of art mediums and locations such as downtown, community gateways, city hall, community parks, neighborhood parks, and trail corridors. Suggested locations: • Multipurpose Facility • Orono Park • Lion John Weicht Park • Public Parking Lot at the intersection of Main/U.S. Hwy 10 N:\Departments\Parks and Recreation\Commission\Packets\2019\06-12-2019 PRC Packet\7.8 sr Public Art.docx Once a location is selected, the EDA would then develop an RFP and connect with local artists, and re- establish the 2014 sub-committee. Once an artist is selected through the process, an application for the CMAB grant would be submitted. Financial Impact In 2014, $17,000 was allocated for public art. The actual cost was $15,400. At that time, no grants were available for the project. The EDA will discuss budgeting for public art installation at their June 17, 2019, meeting. Attachments  CMAB FY19 Public Art Guidelines  IQ Magazine Article: Art That Sets Us Apart by Lisa Meyers McClintick  Elk River Public Arts Plan FY19 PUBLIC ART GUIDELINES 220 - 4th Avenue North, P O Box 458 Foley, MN 56329 320-968-4290 1-866-345-7140 fax: 320-968-4291 www.centralmnartsboard.org We understand that the online application system may present a barrier to some applicants and will make reasonable efforts to accommodate particular needs on a case-by-case basis. This information can be made available in the following alternative formats: Braille, large print, and audio recording. We can also help find a language interpreter to translate these guidelines. To accommodate your requests, the Central MN Arts Board will need at least 10 working days. We recommend using Chrome or Firefox as your web browser to complete the online application. MN Relay Service 1-800-627-3529 Updated 7/18/18 2 PROGRAM OVERVIEW The Public Art program provides funds for the completion of well planned, permanent or temporary works of public art that are accessible to the general public without cost. Temporary public art projects must have a significant public impact and permanent, publicly accessible documentation. All requests must have a minimum of 25% matching funds. There is no maximum request amount but funds are limited. Contact the CMAB for the current program budget. Public Art funds are provided through Minnesota’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund. Program Goal: Support the creation and installation of publicly accessible works of art. Objectives/Outcomes: • Permanent works of art are installed throughout the region • Artists are employed to create public art, and are recognized for their contributions. • Public art works give communities a sense of identity • Public art transforms and revitalizes the spaces where it is installed WHO CAN APPLY Applicants must serve Region 7W residents and be located within the Minnesota counties of Benton, Sherburne, Stearns, or Wright. • Nonprofit 501(c)(3) arts organizations • Arts organizations or arts groups without nonprofit designation using a fiscal agent • Nonprofit organizations that do not have arts as a primary focus, such as schools, senior centers, community education, cultural groups and colleges • Schools • Local government units (city, township and county) APPLICANTS NOT ELIGIBLE • For-profit businesses • CMAB grant recipients with any overdue final reports • Applicants that have received a CMAB Public Art grant within the same fiscal year • Individuals PROPOSALS and EXPENSES ELIGIBLE • Public art openly accessible without security or cost restrictions • Murals, sculpture, installations, etc. that are permanent or temporary • Performances (i.e. flash mobs), readings, interactive exhibits • Video projections, soundscapes • Materials and supplies for the creation of the work • Wages/stipends for artists/performers to create the work • Contract labor for installation such as concrete pouring, tile installation • Documentation of installations, performances, and other temporary works PROPOSALS AND EXPENSES NOT ELIGIBLE • Private Commissions Updated 7/18/18 3 • Events or performances that are a part of an applicant’s regular programming • Those that do not have the arts as the primary focus • Activities that are essentially for the religious socialization of the participants or audience • Activities that attempt to influence any state or federal legislation or appropriation • Payment for new building projects • Any event or installation for which patrons will be charged admission • Fees to secure a site (permits, purchasing land) • Staff pay for regular hours/administrative duties that fall outside the scope of the public art project • Regular administrative costs for recipients of Minnesota State Arts Board Operating or CMAB Community Arts Support • Food and serving items • Any expenses not directly related to the proposal. • Research and development for public art projects (Project Grant or Artist Career Development programs can support research and development) HOW TO APPLY Click the Manage GRANTS button in the upper right corner of the CMAB homepage. First-time applicants need to create an account using an email address and a password. Submit the application online and include: A. Public Art designs/Mock-ups B. Lead Artist(s) Work Samples and Resume C. Documentation of Site Approval (permits, letters, zoning decisions) D. Proposal budget E. 501(c)(3) letter. Government units and public schools do not have to submit this letter. If using a fiscal agent you must submit their 501(c)(3) letter F. Fiscal agent agreement (if applicable) Applicants are encouraged to call the CMAB office at 320.968.4290 to discuss eligibility or to have a draft of the application reviewed at least two weeks prior to the deadline date. • Applications must be submitted by 11:59 pm on the deadline date. • Applications received after the deadlines are ineligible. There are no exceptions to this policy. USING Fax-to-File: A Fax-to-File feature is available within the application to help convert documents from hard copy to digital PDF format. Fax -to-File is located in the upper left portion of your screen under tools. Click on Fax -to-File and you will be presented with a toll-free number. Once you have a fax number, you will have 20-minutes to fax documents for conversion. Click the “Finished Faxing” button to see a list of files. Converted documents will be available to download to your computer. Contact the CMAB office if you need further assistance in converting files. Updated 7/18/18 4 APPLICATION CONTENT RAC Data Information The following questions are required for data collection purposes by the Minnesota State Arts Board and the MN Legislature. The information is not considered in application review and is not visible to reviewers. Definitions of the RAC Data codes can be found on page 12. • How did you learn about this program? • Proposal Name • Proposal Summary – Restate the proposal name and provide a one or two sentence description. • Proposal Discipline - Select one category that best describes the grant activity • Start Date – Activities described in the grant proposal must begin AFTER the CMAB Board review date. • End Date – Activities must be completed within 12 months of the CMAB Board review date. • Measurable Outcomes Summary – Briefly describe outcomes for the proposal • Evaluation Plan/Methods Summary– Briefly describe evaluation plans to measure outcomes • Publicity – Does the applicant use an alternate name other than the legal name for publicity purposes? • Alternate Name – If yes, enter alternate name to be used for publicity purposes. (or indicate N/A). • Applicant Type – Choose the description that best fits the applicant. • Discipline - Select the code that best describes the applicant’s primary area of interest in the arts • Status – Legal status code describing the organization • Institution – Select one code that best describes the organization • Applicant’s Population by Ethnicity - Select one code that best represents 50% or more of the staff, board or membership. N = American Indian/Native American; A = Asian; P = Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander; B = Black/African American; H = Hispanic/Latino; M = Middle Eastern/North African; W = White; 99 = when no single group; O = Other; 98 = Data not provided • Applicant’s Population by Distinct Groups- Select the one code that best represents 50% or more of the staff, board or membership: I = Individuals with Disabilities; S = Adults older than Sixty; V = Military Veterans; 99 = None of the above; 98 = Data not provided • Street Address – Enter the street address (No P.O. Box), City and Zip Code where the applicant is located. • County – Select the county where the organization is located. • MN House District - where the organization is located. To use the district poll finder, Click Here • Congressional District - where the organization is located. To use the district poll finder, Click Here • Artists Participating – Estimated number of participants directly involved in/ providing artistic services. • Youth Audience – Estimated number of children and youth (0-18) who will directly engage with the arts, related specifically to the grant, whether through attendance at arts events or participation in arts learning or other types of activities. Do not include broadcast audience. • Adult Audience – Estimated number of adults (19+) who will directly engage with the arts, related specifically to the grant, whether through attendance at arts events or participation in arts learning. Excludes employees, paid performers, artists participating and broadcast audience. Do not include repeat attendees. • Proposal’s Population by Age - Select all categories that, by your best estimate, make up 25% or more of the population that will directly benefit from the award. 1 = Children/Youth (0-18 years); 2 = Young Adults (19-24 years); 3 = Adults (25- 64 years); 4 = Older Adults (65 + years); 9 = No single groups will make up more than 25% population. • Proposal’s Population by Distinct Groups- Select all categories that, by your best estimate, make up 25% or more of the population that will directly benefit from the award. D = Individuals with Disabilities; I = Individuals in institutions (including hospitals, hospices, nursing homes, assisted care, correctional facilities and homeless shelters); P = Individuals living below the Poverty Line; E = Individuals with Limited English Proficiency; M = Military Veterans/ Active Duty Personnel; Y = Youth at Risk; G = No single distinct group; 5 = Pre-K, Children 5 and under • Proposal’s Population by Ethnicity - Select all categories that, by your best estimate, make up 25% or more of the population that will directly benefit from the award. N = American Indian/Native American; A = Asian; P = Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander; B = Black/African American; H = Hispanic/Latino; M = Middle Eastern/North African; W = White; G = no single ethnic/racial group • Additional Information (optional) - Data collection questions do not always provide options to accurately describe the Updated 7/18/18 5 racial or ethnic identity of applicants and the groups they serve. If there is additional information you would like to provide about the race or ethnicity of the groups served by the project, include that information here. ADVICE FOR APPLICANTS The Public Art Program is scored using four criteria: Artistic Merit & Quality, Demonstrated Need, Outcomes & Evaluation, and Applicant Ability. Each criterion has a series of statements that reviewers are asked to consider when reviewing and scoring an application. When completing a grant application, refer to the criteria statements listed beneath each heading. Strong proposals will address all applicable criteria in the narrative responses. PROPOSAL NARRATIVE ARTISTIC MERIT/QUALITY - 9 of 30 points Evaluators use the following criteria when reviewing this section of the application: 1. Proposed public art is designed by high quality artists and involves the creation/installation of artwork that demonstrates creativity, mastery of craft, and a distinct artistic voice. 2. Public art will contribute artistic value that would not otherwise be available to the communities served, and may also contribute cultural and/or educational value. 3. The public art project advances the applicant’s mission or goals related to public art, and builds upon past programming. 4. If applicable: ability to create community understanding and awareness of art through community engagement, and/or outreach to underserved communities. 5. Proposed public art is shaped or influenced by the identified community and
reflects the unique needs and interests of that community. 6. Proposed public art will build a deeper understanding and appreciation of the art
form. 1) Mission Statement – Applicants that do not have a mission statement should provide a statement that outlines the goals and values of their group. 2) Describe the public art project – Refer to the criteria statements above 3) Include a rendering or an example of the proposed public art. Examples include designs or schematics for proposed work. Include examples that will help to communicate what the finished art will look like.  Two & Three Dimensional Renderings: 1800 pixels wide in ONE .PDF document and include the title, description and dimension with each sample.  Theater/Dance: Submit samples in .WMV, .SWF, or .MP4 file format and include the Title and Length of excerpt.  Music: Submit samples in .MP3, .WAV, .WMA, or .AIF formats and include the Song Title, Type of Music and Length of Song for each sample.  Literary: Submit samples in ONE .PDF document and include the Title and Length of excerpt. o Public Art Example upload- Combine multiple pages into ONE PDF document and submit no more than 5 images, 10 pages of literary work or 7 minutes of audio/video. Literary submissions may include up to 7 minutes of audio or video of a reading from submitted pages. o Or Video/Website URL- include this only if you are directing reviewers to specific content on a website. 4) Example Description – Describe how the example provided relates to your proposal. If necessary, direct reviewers to specific images, pages or a specific 7 minutes of audio/video 5) Temporary works - If the lifespan of the public artwork is 1 year or less, describe how the art will be documented and shared. Updated 7/18/18 6 6) Impact of temporary work - Describe how temporary works of public art will continue to have an impact in the community after the work is no longer present. DEMONSTRATED NEED – 9 of 30 points Evaluators use the following criteria when reviewing this section of the application: 1. The public art project is well designed to address the identified community/audience's specific interests and circumstances, as understood by both the applicant and the community. 2. Evidence demonstrates that community members, organizations, and partners want to engage in the project activities, and are willing to invest through commitment of time, money, and/or in-kind goods and services. 
 3. Accessibility needs of participants and/or audiences are understood and well addressed. 4. Evidence demonstrates that the project provides an arts opportunity that would not otherwise be available for the identified community/audience. 7) Describe the group(s) that will benefit from the public art project and how it will serve their needs. Consider demographic factors such as ethnicity, socioeconomic status, age and gender. a. Presenters/creators (artists, actors, performers, etc.) b. Audience (patrons, students, etc.) - population/community that will live/work near and experience the art as well as any other groups that will be served by this public art project. 8) Describe how the need for the public art project was determined - Examples include surveys, community meetings, audience feedback, local and regional studies, etc. 9) List ways in which the community has demonstrated support for the public art project – Examples include financial contributions, volunteer time, donation of services/supplies/space, survey responses, etc. OUTCOMES AND EVALUATION- 6 of 30 points Evaluators use the following criteria when reviewing this section of the application: 1. Proposal outcomes describe measurable and achievable change in knowledge, attitude, skill, behavior, or condition among the people the project is designed to benefit. 2. The evaluation plan includes appropriate methods to measure and document project
completion, effectiveness, and progress toward stated outcome(s). 3. The evaluation plan identifies how evaluation results will be used to improve current or future programming (e.g., adjustments to the project, informing future programming, sharing with stakeholders or peers, applicant learning and development, etc.). 
 10) Measurable Outcomes - Once the public art project is complete, what are the expected specific measurable outcomes? Explain what success will look like, what will change, what learning may take place, etc. 11) Evaluation Methods - Describe the evaluation methods that will be used to measure the proposed outcomes. 12) Reflection and Action - Describe how your organization will utilize the information obtained from evaluation. Updated 7/18/18 7 ORGANIZATIONAL ABILITY- 6 of 30 points Evaluators use the following criteria when reviewing this section of the application: 1. The project team is well assembled, inclusive, qualified, and demonstrates the capacity to
design and execute a high quality public art project of the proposed scale and scope. 2. Project team and/or partners have appropriate and clearly articulated responsibilities. If volunteers will play a significant role in activities, that has been described. 3. An effective promotion and marketing plan is in place which supports the project's
participation goals and fosters broad public awareness and/or engagement. 4. The public art project has a complete and realistic timeline. 5. Regarding the budget, a) revenue streams are realistic and attainable, therefore the cash match is likely to be met, b) expenses are reasonable and appropriate for the proposed activities, c) the budget honors the work of artists. 6. Thorough research for the proposed public art site is complete and approval has been obtained for the installation/performance of work. 13) Project Director Person designated by the applicant organization to oversee the implementation of the proposed public art project. • Director Name • Director Address; City, State, Zip Code • Director Phone • Director Email • Director Bio 14) Lead Artist Primary person involved in the design, planning and creation of the proposed public art. • Artist Name • Artist Address • Artist Phone • Artist Email • Artist Resume/Bio Upload as a .PDF [upload box] • Artist Work Samples - Combine multiple samples into ONE .PDF document. [upload box] 15) List other key personnel and/or artists involved in the public art project and their roles. Include a short bio explaining their artistic skills and experience. (i.e. contractors, assistants, etc) 16) Timeline- Describe the timeline for all project activities. Include planning, performances, activities, assessment, unveiling, etc. All activities MUST be completed within one year of the project start date. 17) Describe any research completed regarding the safety and structural requirements of the Public Art. Examples include environmental impacts, engineering requirements, safety concerns, lighting, etc. 18) Location of Public Art – Provide the street address and include the name of the property owner. 19) Provide documentation of site approval. A contract or agreement with the owner (governmental unit/private property owner) granting permission and indicating the duration of the project. • Site Approval [upload box] 20) What is the estimated lifespan of the work? - List the duration of temporary public art or estimate the duration of time before “permanent” works will require major maintenance or repairs. 21) Publicity and/or Marketing Efforts - Explain how this public art project will be promoted/documented. (i.e. ads, flyers, news releases, videos, YouTube, etc.) Updated 7/18/18 8 22) Supporting Materials (optional) – [Upload] limited to only those that are essential to the public art project. Combine multiple samples into ONE .PDF document. PROPOSAL BUDGET 23) Download the Excel Budget Template, complete, save and upload in .PDF format. This budget template includes a second worksheet that will be required to complete the final report if awarded. Save for future use. BUDGET FORM INSTRUCTIONS: Expenses Section: List all costs associated with this public art project. Provide detailed descriptions and calculations of expenses. Expenses listed CANNOT be paid prior to the grant approval date. Column A – Budget Items o Contract Personnel/Artist’s Fees – Name each person and their role • Travel expenses – related to bringing in an artist from outside the state of Minnesota can be no more than 10% of the total grant amount requested. Additional travel expenses may be included and paid with funds from other sources. • Administrative costs – Applicants who are recipients of Minnesota State Arts Board or CMAB operating funds (Community Arts Support) cannot include or prorate regular administrative or overhead costs in any grant proposal budget. Regular administrative costs are those incurred regardless of whether an organization holds the proposed project. School personnel cannot be paid for work that falls within the scope of their contracted duties. o Expendable Supplies & Materials – art supplies, sheet music, set building materials o Publicity and Documentation – Itemize printing costs, ads, promotional items, etc. o Other – Evaluation, rental of space or equipment, purchase of copyright permissions  Column B – Descriptions/Calculations o Contract Personnel/Artist’s Fees – Show methods of calculation (i.e. hours, rates, etc.) or indicate contract rate or stipend o Expendable Supplies & Materials – show calculations o Equipment – indicate if purchased or rented o Publicity – show calculations (i.e. 3 ads x $50)  Column C – Eligible Expenses – Public Art project specific expenses that can be paid with CMAB grant funds. o CMAB grant amount request cannot exceed 75% of eligible public art project expenses The following expenses CANNOT be included in Column C: o Food and serving items o Equipment – equipment and materials that are not a permanent part of the Public Art o Travel/lodging expenses not related to bringing in an artist o Maintenance costs that extend beyond the public art project end date o Any expenses that do not represent real costs - use of spaces that an applicant can use for free, tickets to an applicant’s project, scholarships for participation, etc.  Column D – Other Expenses – expenses specific to the proposal that are not eligible to be paid using CMAB funds  Column E – Total Expenses – Total of Eligible and Additional expenses. Total expenses must equal total revenue in the budget form. Revenue Section: In-kind contributions of skilled labor (electrical, engineering, etc), equipment rental and material donations ARE accepted as revenue. The value of in-kind contributions must be verifiable through a gift receipt, quote or invoice. Artist, administrative and volunteer hours are NOT eligible in-kind revenue. • Section A: Cash on hand budgeted for this proposal • Section B: In-kind revenue for this proposal –List the estimated value of donated materials, equipment rental and skilled labor and Include quotes when possible. • Section C: Grants and Donations -list the name of grantor(s) and associated grant amount. (Do NOT include Updated 7/18/18 9 the CMAB request). • Section D: Earned Income – list sources of other income such as: o sponsorships o advertising o fundraising • Projected Revenue – include all revenue from other sources (do not include the CMAB grant request) • Amount Requested from the CMAB – Cannot Exceed 75% of eligible expenses • Total Support for the Proposal –Must equal Total Expenses (Column E) 24) Grant Amount Requested from CMAB - Cannot exceed 75% of Column C of the budget page (Eligible Expenses). Amount must match the grant request amount in the budget spreadsheet. Round up to the nearest dollar. 25) In-Kind Contributions- Enter the total amount for In-Kind Contributions that were included as REVENUE in the Budget form. Enter "0" if not applicable. 26) Total Public Art Project Expense - Total of Eligible and Additional expenses. Total expenses must equal total revenue in the budget form. This section for 501(c)(3) ORGANIZATIONS ONLY 26) Person In Charge of Organizational Issues - i.e. Executive Director, Business Manager, Board President • Name • Title • Phone Number • Email Address 27) Board of Directors- list current board members and their roles. Enter information in one block of text, formatted as follows: Example: Jason Harding: Chair; Melissa Frank: board member; William Jones, Jr: treasurer 28) Board Officer Contacts – List names, title and email address or phone number for all board officers. 29) Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) Access Plan All organizations receiving public funding are required by the federal Section 504 Regulations and the ADA to facilitate access for people with disabilities. Requests may involve an individual's access to a facility or to the content of the project. An access plan should describe accomplishments related to ADA, and outline any future goals for making facilities, programs, or services accessible to persons with disabilities. Organizations are encouraged to consider access issues and develop a plan to accommodate requests for specialized access to events. The CMAB does not enforce ADA compliance. This section for applicants using a FISCAL AGENT ONLY 30) FISCAL SPONSORSHIP- Applicants without nonprofit designation must upload a fiscal agent agreement that includes the components listed in this Sample Fiscal Agent Agreement • Organization Name, Street Address, City, State, Zip • Contact Person Name, Phone, Email • FISCAL AGENT AGREEMENT Updated 7/18/18 10 CERTIFICATION 31) FEDERAL 501(c)(3) NON-PROFIT STATUS LETTER – Does not apply to public schools or units of government. All nonprofit organizations must attach their 501(c)(3) letter. If you are using a fiscal agent, you must submit their 501(c)3 letter. 32) ELECTRONIC SIGNATURE You must certify that your board of directors/advisory committee supports this application, that it is accurate and that the proposal will be carried out as described if funded. CMAB SERVICES AND GRANTING PROCESS APPLICATION DRAFT REVIEW Applicants may request a draft review of an application. CMAB staff will review the application and identify any concerns, upon request submitted via email (media@centralmnartsboard.org) or fax (320-968-4291), at least three weeks before the application deadline. A review of the application does not guarantee that the request will be funded. REVIEW PROCESS Applications will be made available to the CMAB Board of Directors or a review panel at least two weeks prior to the review date. Applications are assigned final scores at an in-person review meeting. Each application will receive a score on a scale from 0 to 30. An application must attain an average of 15 or higher to be considered for funding. All review meetings are open to the public; see CMAB website for board and panel review dates. CMAB Directors give final approval on all grant awards. All applicants will be notified of the Board’s decision. GRANT CONTRACT Awardees must submit a contractual agreement within 30 days of notification. Failure to provide required documents can result in the cancellation of a grant commitment. If funds are refused within 45 days of receipt of grant notification, they will be offered to the next applicant in rank order. Returned or refused funds will be applied to future grant rounds after 45 days. ARTIST AGREEMENT A signed payment agreement with the artist(s) participating in the public art project must be uploaded with the contract. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF CMAB FUNDING Because it is important for the public to understand how state tax dollars are returning to their communities, and to fulfill Minnesota state law requirements, grantees are contractually required to acknowledge CMAB funding. The appropriate statement is provided to awarded applicants in their grant contract. This acknowledgement statement must appear on all advertising material, programs, press releases and announcements referencing the funded event. Grantee must provide copies of all internally generated advertising materials and programs with their final report. FINAL REPORTS A final report must be submitted within sixty (60) days of the project’s completion. Applicants with overdue final reports are ineligible to apply for CMAB grants until the final report is received and approved. Updated 7/18/18 11 GRANT APPEAL PROCESS Any applicant who can show cause that established grant review procedures were not followed, or that the policies of the program were not equitable to all applicants, may file an appeal in writing within fifteen (15) business days of being notified of the CMAB’s decision. A CMAB designated committee will review the appeal and determine if further investigation is warranted. If there is cause for an appeal, the matter will go before the full board for a final decision. There is no right of appeal to dispute decisions in respect to artistic quality or merit, ability or need. Contact the CMAB office to view a copy of the complete appeal policy. DEFINITIONS Applicant: Individual/group/organization/local government organizing and implementing the proposal. If two groups are involved, select one to be the lead and therefore the applicant. CMAB Fiscal Year: The CMAB Fiscal Year runs from July 1st to June 30th. Community: The group(s) of individuals served. Evaluation: A systematic determination of merit, worth and significance, using established criteria. The primary purpose of evaluation, in addition to gaining insight into prior or existing initiatives, is to enable reflection and assist in the identification of future change. Fiscal Agent: Organization which is legally responsible for the proper use of the grant funds when an applicant is not a school or unit of government and does not have tax-exempt status under Section 501©(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Outcome: The final result when goals have been achieved and the proposed activities are complete. RAC Data Information: Regional Arts Councils (RAC) data collected is maintained by the Minnesota State Arts Board and is distributed to others in accordance with the Minnesota Data Practices Act. Complete information is necessary to ensure the reliability of our data. For more information on Central MN Arts Board programs, services visit our website at http://www.centralmnartsboard.org or call 320.968.4290 or 1.866.345.7140. Updated 7/18/18 12 RAC Data Code Definitions 87 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix: Elk River Public Arts Introduction Public art and architecture says a lot about the city in which it is displayed. Murals may depict an historical event while avant-garde sculptures might indicate a place’s openness to new ideas. A crowded art fair says volumes about a community’s support for local artists, and a precision marching band may play in support of a local school. Elk River as a community embraces art and artists. The city recognizes the value of compelling public art, the input of creative thinkers, and the contributions they make to Elk River’s identity and sense of place. The Elk River Public Art Plan is for city-owned properties and infrastructure, though it may provide support beyond public areas. It addresses the current arts scene, public art policies, guidance for public art, and initiatives to further develop public art in the city. Public Art Vision Visioning Session On May 5, 2014, members of the Elk River Arts Community, city staff, and the Parks and Recreation Master Plan Planning Team met to review opportunities and potential locations and partnerships for public art in the city. Meeting participants also identified goals, strategies, and themes for the public art plan. Members of the Elk River Arts Alliance, the Regional Arts Council, the Minnesota State Arts Board, the Central Minnesota Arts Board, Independent School District 728, the Elk River Economic Development Authority, and various theaters and other performance groups were all in attendance. Elk RiverPublic Arts Plan Photo from Arts Alliance Appendix: Elk River Public Arts 88 Attendees viewed a presentation and participated in discussions of public art opportunities and best practices as they applied to Elk River. They then defined the potential scope, goals, opportunities and approach to public art in the community. The input gathered at this meeting informed the vision for the Elk River Public Art Plan. The Vision Public Art should represent Elk River. Its themes, creators, and viewers should come away with a better understanding of what the city is – ‘a sense of place.’ It should engage residents, businesses, and policymakers in the process. It should fit within the city, whether as a standalone piece or incorporated into buildings and infrastructure, as an integral part of the community. It should be displayed in a city that recognizes and compensates artists for their work. But above all, the art must stir the feelings of those who encounter it, to speak the ‘Language of Emotion.’ Public Art Best Practices When developing a public art program, there are two elements that need to be discussed and defined. One is the role of public art, the other is the role and management of the program to support public art. Public Art Successful public art generally meets the following characteristics: • Is accessible to the public (location and financially) • Has context specific to the site or community • Includes community involvement • Can express community values, enhance the environment, transform a landscape, heighten awareness, or question assumptions Photo from ArtSoup 89 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix: Elk River Public Arts Inventory of Public Art in Elk River • Downtown Murals • Rivers Edge Commons ▶Etched River ▶Fountain • Sculptures Downtown ▶Ladle ▶Elk • “Tina” at Hillside City Park • Handke School and Pit • Jackson Avenue Water Tower • Hwy 10 Memorial • Independence Day Fireworks • Historic Markers • White deer at Handke 13 Inventory of Public Art Programs and Policies in Elk River • Art Soup • Arts Alliance Classes • Riverfront Concert Series • Arts In Harmony Art Show • Christmas Performances • German Festival • High School Evening of the Arts Inventory of Public Art groups & Organizations in and associated with Elk River • Elk River Arts Alliance • Regional Arts Council • Minnesota State Arts Board • Central Minnesota Arts Board • ISD 728 Public Schools • ISD 728 Community Education • Elk River Economic Development Authority Appendix: Elk River Public Arts 90 Choosing Public Art Selecting art by committee has advantages and drawbacks. Art can be an iterative practice that benefits from the critiquing process in which outside opinions help the artist refine and improve her or his work. Without some oversight there is also the potential for art that is unsuitable for a community. Using a public art selection committee can protect the city as well as the integrity of the public art program provided the committee consists of well-informed members with a wide range of expertise and experience in public art. The committee should be made up of representatives from the public art groups, organizations working in the community, artists living and working in Elk River, Parks and Recreation Commission members, and other stakeholders. Public Art Programs As communities grow their public art programs, it is better to move slowly and learn from experience than to take on too much to start. The intent of this plan is to provide the city with options for supporting public art and methods for developing public art at an appropriate speed. Types of Public Art Locations for Public Art SIDEWALKMONUMENTSARCHITECTUREWALLSPAVINGSCULPTUREPERFORMANCES“POP-UP” GALLERIESWATER FEATURESLIVING ARTINFRASTRUCTUREGATEWAYSPLAZASSTREETSSCHOOLSFESTIVALSSTOREFRONTSINTERIOR BUILDINGSTRADITIONAL VENUESPARKS/TRAILSPUBLIC PERMANENT PRIVATE EPHEMERAL 91 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix: Elk River Public Arts Various communities have employed different programs to develop public art, including: • A rotating gallery program in which cities first provide a venue for artists to display their work, and then annually add one or two of the most popular pieces to the city’s permanent collection • Arts dedication (similar to park dedication) from any new private development, redevelopment, or public capital or infrastructure investment • Arts requirement in which any new private development, redevelopment, or public capital or infrastructure investment must incorporate some level of public art • Public art competitions • Support or subsidies for locations for artists to do their work • Support for events (concerts, plays, art fairs) • Artist in Residence programs • Facilitating partnerships between artists and corporate patrons • Pursuing grants • Facilitating simple permitting for temporary or “pop-up” art opportunities Locations The locations identified are places where public art displays would likely be most engaged. In these settings, the art should respond to the context in which it is displayed. Public art, unlike a gallery piece sitting against a blank wall, must fit its setting. This is not to say that public art is not welcome in other locations in the city, nor that every artist’s interpretation of what fits a location would be the same, but an artist must be able to answer the question, “how does your art respond to the context and setting in which it will be displayed?” Downtown The historic downtown already shows and hosts numerous pieces of public art, from sculptures and murals, to performances and fountains. It is a pedestrian-focused area with public and private facilities. It is also the heart of the community, and an area commonly identified with Elk River. Public art projects in the downtown area could further enrich the experiences of visitors and locals alike. Opportunities for public art could include functional pedestrian amenities such as benches, lights, planters, and gates or railings. Additional public art could fit into buildings or in storefront windows or facades. Potential points of focus or themes for public art could include the river or the area’s history, or art could be created in response to the built form of the district. Art in this location will likely be oriented to the human scale. Community Gateways Community gateways create a visitor’s first impression of Elk River as they enter the city. These gateways thus serve as the city’s welcome, whether it is for a first time visitor or for residents returning home from their daily commutes. Public art at community gateways must consider the way in which people will interact with it. Someone entering Elk River from the north along Highway169 will likely be traveling at highway speed. Thus, the gateway must be legible from a greater distance and at high speeds. Viewers will not be able to consider the Appendix: Elk River Public Arts 92 art for a long time, nor will they notice intricate details. Unlike a downtown piece that can be looked at and explored by a pedestrian, public art at gateways will likely have to make an immediate and strong impression. Art and materials may need to scale up or down to meet the individual location’s needs. Coordination with the city’s wayfinding plan will also be important for art in these locations. City Hall As the official seat of the city’s government, an element of professionalism must be considered with regards to public art that is located at City Hall. The amount of space available also narrows the types of artistic interpretation appropriate for this location. Art in City Hall will likely be visual in nature and should be refined to reflect upon the city as an institution. It should be of a size that it can be located in City Hall without impeding movement or day to day operations. The level of detail should allow the viewer to stop and consider both the message and the craftsmanship of the piece. Community Parks Community parks serve as the gathering place for the city. They are often a destination and attract people from all over Elk River and surrounding communities, thus public art in community parks reflects upon the entire community. Community parks have often been developed due to the unique features, uses, history, and landscape of the place. These stories and characteristics can offer artists inspiration when creating art for these locations. Public art in community parks should build on the character of the individual park in which it is located. As community hubs these parks require art that will engage an audience from across the city. Art should interpret, be inspired by, or otherwise relate to the context and unique characteristics of the park. Neighborhood Parks Neighborhood parks are the public spaces that define the “finer grain” neighborhoods of Elk River. People claim their neighborhood parks in ways they do not or could not with community or regional parks. These parks are where people develop their personal stories and experiences. Public art in neighborhood parks should be an opportunity for the neighborhood to put their unique stamp on the facility. Opportunities could include school projects, mobile art making events, murals, or impromptu performances. Trail Corridors The Great Northern Trail is the outdoor recreation spine of the community. Visitors and residents alike come to ride or hike the trail. Other trail corridors connect neighborhoods, natural areas, and parks. Many users are walking or bicycling, which means they may not stop for long and pass by areas relatively quickly. Numerous opportunities exist for art to be incorporated into the wayfinding, infrastructure, and facilities along the trail. Because trails often connect natural areas and community destinations, they could be enhanced by interpretation or telling the stories of these important community locations. Trails and art can create a unique linear set of experiences that captivate viewers by giving them themes and stories to consider with each new encounter. 93 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix: Elk River Public Arts Examples and Precedents The images on these two pages display a range of public art. Similar projects may be fitting in Elk River. This set of images should not limit what is considered for public art, but may give an idea of the character and range of scales and mediums that could be used. Examples include sculptures, arts festivals, infrastructure art, temporary installations, musical performances, shelters, artistic park features, and storytelling plays Bearly About - Lake Oswego, OR Pathways to Peace - Minneapolis, MN Gateway to the West - Minneapolis, MN Dry Stone Construction Demonstration - Minnesota Landscape Arboretum ArtShanty Project - White Bear Lake, MN Fears Erased - Duluth, MNDaybreak Sculpture/Skate Park - Utah Stone Slabs and Mounds - Franconia, MNNest - Ironwood, MI Appendix: Elk River Public Arts 94 Millstream Arts Festival - St. Joseph, MN Growth - Brooklyn Park, MN Wetland Overlook - Wilsonville, ORPathways to Peace - Minneapolis, MN Chihuly Glass & Bench - Seattle , WA Granite Falls: Saturday Nights! Community Performance - Granite Falls, MN Edgerton Bridge - Vadnais Heights, MN Bench - Spokane, WA Disc Spiral - Minnesota Landscape Arboretum Okee Dokee Canoe Trip Concert - Mississippi River Stickworks - Collegeville, MN 95 City of Elk River - Parks and Recreation Master Plan Appendix: Elk River Public Arts Goals and Strategies for Public Art in Elk River The goals outlined below represent the input from local artists and arts groups in Elk River. They are intentionally open ended so as to be flexible as the city further develops its public art program. Strategies are steps the city or others may undertake to achieve the goals outlined. Goal: Public art should represent the community and help create a “sense of place” Strategies: • Utilize local artists whenever appropriate. • Incorporate local materials when appropriate. • Look to characteristics of Elk River for inspiration. • Incorporate art into the infrastructure of Elk River. • Set aside a percentage of any infrastructure project for the incorporation of public art. • Explore alternative infrastructure (rain gardens, unique bridges, streetscapes, etc.) that can incorporate creative elements. • Facilitate and streamline the process for temporary art installations such as “pop-up” shops, performances, and events. Goal: Public art should be leveraged for positive economic benefit and development Strategies: • Promote Elk River arts outside of the city. • Facilitate events to attract people to downtown. • Coordinate with local businesses. • Facilitate events and programs for the sale of art. • Develop and promote partnerships with corporate patrons and artists. Appendix: Elk River Public Arts 96 Goal: Engage the community in the process of public art Strategies: • Include citizen representatives as part of an arts selection committee. • Allow for programs such as a “People’s Choice” for voting on and selecting pieces for the city’s permanent collection. • Engage decision makers in business and government. • Create an event such as a business/benefactors luncheon or awards program to introduce artists and projects to civic leaders. • Incorporate artists in other government run public engagement processes. • Encourage community groups to raise money to purchase and install public art. Goal: Support public artists Strategies: • Maintain and develop arts based programming in recreation, community education, and within the school district to further the development of new and emerging artists. • Compensate artists for their public art contributions. • Explore the development of affordable artist space for studios and sale of art. • Pursue grants to fund public art projects.