03-18-2024 Beautification and Public Art Committee Packet
Special Meeting of the Beautification and
Public Art Committee
AGENDA
Monday, March 18, 2024
3:30 p.m.
Elk River City Hall
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
2. CONSIDER AGENDA
3. CONSIDER MINUTES
3.1 February 20th, 2024, Meeting Minutes
4. GENERAL BUSINESS
4.1 Public Art Project Update
4.2 2024 Beautification Award
4.3 General Updates
5. ADJOURNMENT
Meeting Protocol
No sidebar discussions
No interruptions
State your concern
Ensure you understand
Don’t take things personally
Adhere to time limits
Come prepared
Ensure all are heard
Special Meeting of the Elk River EDA
Beautification and Public Art Committee
Held at the Elk River City Hall
Tuesday, February 20, 2024
Members Present: Deb Hjermstad, Melissa McAlpine, Dan Tveite, Jennifer Wagner, and Ryan Hardin (3:58
p.m.)
Members Absent: Nic Hahn
Staff Present: Economic Development Specialist Josh Mollan, and Economic Development Director
Brent O’Neil
Guests Present: Parks and Recreation Commission Representative Mike Niziolek
1. Call Meeting to Order
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the special meeting of the EDA Beautification and Public Art
Committee was called to order at 3:32 p.m. by Josh.
The members, staff, and guests introduced themselves.
2. Consider Agenda
Moved by Dan and seconded by Jennifer to approve the agenda. Motion carried 4-0.
3. Consider Minutes
Moved by Dan and seconded by Melissa to approve the December 18, 2023, meeting minutes.
Motion carried 4-0.
4.1 Review and Recommend Public Art Proposals
Josh shared that of the six registered artists two submitted proposals.
Dan asked for clarification on Carey Dean’s proposal if the projects proposed were separate.
Josh advised that Carey Dean’s proposal featured two projects, each being proposed at $20,000, whereas
Daniela Bianchini’s proposal featured multiple projects, combined being proposed at $20,000.
Jennifer brought up her concern over vandalism of the mosaic trash receptacles at Orono Park
The committee was comfortable moving forward with judging the two proposals, knowing that the
committee will aim to seek additional public art in the future.
Mike suggested the committee look into partnering with parks and rec to utilize artistic trash receptacles
across city parks.
(Ryan joined at 3:58 p.m.)
The committee determined that of Carey Deans two pieces, they will move forward with just judging her
first proposal: “Where Energy Flows”.
The committee individually completed the rubric for the two pieces and after combining and averaging their
scores, Carey Dean’s proposal scored 83 and Daniela Bianchini’s proposal scored 76.8.
The committee was in consensus recommending Carey Dean’s proposal to the EDA while keeping Daniela
Bianchini’s as a runner up.
The committee suggested connecting with representatives from the Multi-Purpose Facility Commission
prior to their April meeting, while also attending that meeting for artwork approval.
4.2 General Updates
There were no additional updates.
5. Adjournment
There being no further business, Josh adjourned the meeting of the special meeting of the EDA
Beautification and Public Art Committee at 4:30 p.m.
Minutes prepared by Josh Mollan.
CMAB Public Art Grant Application Draft
City of Elk River
3/13/24
1. Applicant Type – Select Applicant Type. Based on your selection, the coordinated group of
questions will be available to complete.
a. This section for SCHOOLS or Local GOVERNMENT
i. City Contact- i.e. city manager, chief administrative officer, Principal,
financial manager o Name; Title; Phone Number; Email Address
Joshua Mollan
Economic Development Specialist
763-635-1041
jmollan@elkrivermn.gov
ii. Board Officer Contacts – List names, title and email address or phone
number for all board officers
Dan Tveite - EDA President: 763-670-2901
Mike Beyer - EDA Vice President: 763-241-3949
Jeff Hartwig - EDA Treasurer: 612-363-3587
Charlie Blesener - EDA Commissioner: 763-238-7495
Cory Grupa - EDA Commissioner: 612-369-3055
Jennifer Wagner - EDA Commissioner: 612-741-1619
Matthew Westgaard - EDA Commissioner: 612-889-6794
ADVICE FOR APPLICANTS
The Public Art Program is scored using four criteria: Artistic Merit & Quality, Demonstrated
Need and 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. Any applicant with two or more outstanding
grants may have additional conditions applied to this grant, if awarded. Contact CMAB if
you have questions.
ARTISTIC MERIT/QUALITY - 10 of 30 points
Evaluators use the following criteria when reviewing this section of the application:
1) Proposed public art demonstrates creativity, mastery of craft, and is designed by qualified
and experienced artists.
2) Proposed public art will build a deeper understanding and appreciation of the art form.
3) Public art will contribute artistic, cultural and/or educational value include to the
communities served.
4) The public art project advances the applicant’s mission or goals related to public art and
builds upon past programming.
5) Ability to create understanding and awareness of art through community engagement,
and/or outreach to underserved communities.
6) Proposed public art is shaped or influenced by the identified community and reflects their
unique needs and interests
2. Mission Statement – Applicants that do not have a mission statement should provide a
statement that outlines the goals and values of their group.
Because the Elk River Beautification and Public Art Committee knows that arts
are important tools in developing pride in one’s community, we strive to provide
affordable access to quality arts to diverse groups within the community. We
engage Minnesota artists and residents to develop and produce permanent art
installations that speak to a broad spectrum of people in the Elk River
community.
3. Proposal Name – Proposal Name and plan summary, provide a name and brief one
sentence description.
“Where Energy Flows” A mosaic project by Carey Dean proposed for Furniture
and Things Community Event Center.
4. Describe the public art project – Refer to the criteria statements above Choose ONE of
the following three formats: Written, Audio or Video recording. Evaluators are directed to
focus on the content of the narrative (not production quality or writing ability) but
applicants should take steps to ensure that the description submitted is easy to see, hear
and/or read. Written transcripts of audio/video recordings will be provided to evaluators to
accompany audio/ video narratives.
Project Summary
"Where Energy Flows" is an eye-catching mosaic envisioned by local artist Carey
Dean. This exciting project, proposed for the recently constructed Furniture and
Things Community Event Center in Elk River, aims to capture the vibrant energy
of the rivers that traverse the community and their significant impact on the
city’s history, culture, and identity. The final mosaic will be a permanent public
artwork, supporting a sense of place, community pride, and continued public art
appreciation.
Artist Background
Carey Dean is a local artist who excels at nature inspired work. Her work has
been exhibited internationally and commissioned for public spaces throughout
the United States. Ideal for interior spaces, her stained-glass mosaics are
representational and abstract depictions of natural formations and dramatic
American landscapes. As a public artist, Carey strives to capture the unique
character of a region, create a welcoming ambiance, and promotes a sense of
pride of place.
Project Narrative
The Elk and Mississippi Rivers have been the flowing life of Elk River for
centuries. It carved the landscape, powered early industries, and continues to be
a source of recreation and natural beauty. “Where Energy Flows” aspires to
celebrate this enduring connection between the rivers and the city.
Concept and Design
The mosaic, designed by local artist Carey Dean, will be a 7’ by 4’ mosaic,
prominently displayed within the newly constructed Furniture and Things
Community Event Center. The artwork will depict an abstract representation of
the view of the Mississippi River from the City of Elk River. The piece will
feature slightly reflective glass in colors inspired by the local landscapes, a variety
of blues, greens, and browns, bringing color and subtle reflected light into the
architectural space. “Where Energy Flows” will inspire its viewers and heighten
their appreciation for fine art in and out of the community.
Community Engagement
We envision an engaging process for members of the Beautification and Public
Art Committee and other residents to assist in the exploration of the natural
areas that will become the inspiration for the composition of Carey Dean’s
mosaic. Those intertwined in the community will know firsthand where the
ultimate beauty lies in Elk River. The collaborative approach fosters a sense of
ownership and pride in the artwork. Residents will not only be viewers but
guiding members, leaving their mark on a permanent symbol of their
community’s vibrant energy.
Connection to Mission and Goals
This project is guided by the Elk River Public Art Plan which addresses the
current arts scene, public art policies, guidance for public art, and initiatives to
further public art in the City. As a result, the Elk River Economic Development
Authority has dedicated funds to improving and maintaining public art in the city
and is committed to contributing a significant portion of the funds needed to
complete this project. “Where Energy Flows” will satisfy the four goals set forth
but the Elk River Public Art Plan: Public art should represent the community and
help create a sense of place, public art should be leveraged for positive economic
benefit and development, engage the community in the process of public art, and
support public artists.
5. Start Date - Activities described in the grant proposal must begin AFTER the board review
date: May 9, 2024
9/2024
6. End Date - Activities must be complete within 12 months of the board review date.
5/2024
7. Location of Public Art – Provide the Name, street address and the name of the property
owner.
“Where Energy Flows” is proposed within Furniture and Things Community
Event Center, 1000 School Street NW Elk River, MN 55330, which is owned by
the City of Elk River.
8. Include a rendering or an example of the proposed public art. Examples include
designs or schematics for proposed work, similar works installed elsewhere, etc. Include
examples that will help to communicate how the finished art will look or sound.
(attached)
9. Example Description – Describe how the provided example relates to your proposal. If
necessary, direct reviewers to specific images, pages or a specific 7 minutes of audio/video
The style of “Where Energy Flows” will be a custom variation of Carey Dean’s
existing parallelogram-style mosaic as seen in the South Dakota Government
Center in Brookings, SD. The proposed project will utilize inspiration from the
layout and color of the natural areas of Elk River.
DEMONSTRATED NEED – 10 of 30 points
Evaluators use the following criteria when reviewing this section of the application:
1) The proposed public art is well designed to address the identified community/audience's
specific interests and circumstances, as understood by both the applicant and the
community.
2) Demonstrated evidence that there is input and support from the community for the
proposed project.
3) 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.
4) Accessibility needs of participants and/or audiences are understood and well addressed.
5) Evidence demonstrates that the proposal provides an arts opportunity that would not
otherwise be available for the identified community/audience.
10. Describe the target audience for the proposal. 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.
“Where Energy Flows” is set to be permanently displayed at the highest visited
municipal property in the Elk River. Furniture and Things Community Event
Center is home to a wide array of community gathering events that brings in
over 700,000 annual visits. There are two ice arenas that are used for open
skating as well as hockey games and tournaments that can seat a combined 2,200
patrons. This facility is now home to the Minnesota Squatch, a hockey team in
the United States Premier Hockey League. There is a large turf field house with a
walking track doubles as an expo space that has hosted many events, such as
makers markets, dog shows, and farmers markets, to name a few. The
community event center also has the Senior Activity Center which has almost
500 active members. Additionally, there are multiple rentable rooms used for
private events, and birthday parties.
By having a plethora of usable spaces, Furniture and Things Community Event
Center has something for everyone in the community regardless of age or
interests. This is why Elk River is pleased to propose a public art project at this
highly used facility where a great number of individuals, residents and visitors,
have the ability to appreciate the piece.
11. What makes you believe the proposal will be welcomed or celebrated by the
community? Provide examples such as surveys, community meetings, audience feedback,
local and regional studies, etc.
The Elk River community has a history of backing public art in many forms. The
City’s Parks and Recreation Department facilitated a community survey in
October of 2019 to assist completion of their Park Plan. One of items identified
in the survey was that public art was a priority. Throughout the summer, Elk
River hosts the Riverfront Concert Series featuring local and regional bands.
These events pack Rivers Edge Commons on the banks of the Mississippi River
with residents and visitors of all ages supporting this musical side of art.
Additionally, past public art has been commissioned with community support and
appreciation.
12. 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.
The Elk River community has a history of backing public art in many forms.
The Elk River Economic Development Authority, which is comprised of seven
loyal residents, has determined that supporting and maintaining public art be one
of their annual objectives. They have ensured that funds be dedicated to public
art initiatives and maintenance during their annual budgeting process.
The Multipurpose Facility Commission, who oversees the operations of
Furniture and Things Community Event Center, were approached in early 2024
regarding their site to serve as a preferred location for the upcoming public art
RFP. They approved the pursuit of a public art installation within their facility,
and their collaboration has continued as this process progresses. Moreover, in
2021 this commission completed an environmental and branding graphics
guidelines document which emphasized the desire for unique and design
elements throughout the event center.
Local businesses and organizations have provided financial support for a plethora
of city events and initiatives. The EDA is confident in determining passionate
local sponsors for this proposed project.
Most importantly, Elk River has a dedicated group of residents and business
owners who have made the commitment to serve on the Beautification and
Public Art Committee to further support keeping Elk River beautiful and filled
with public art.
13. Describe how accessibility needs are being addressed in this proposal. How will you
accommodate requests for access to the proposed public art project?
“Where Energy Flows” is being proposed at a highly accessible municipal facility.
The proposed location for this piece is on the ground floor of Furniture and
Things Community Event Center. The facility features many handicap accessible
parking stalls, as well as motion sensor sliding entry doors. FT Center is always
fully staffed, and team members will gladly assist patrons to view the artwork.
ABILITY- 10 of 30 points
Evaluators use the following criteria when reviewing this section of the application:
1) Project team and/or partners is well assembled, qualified, with demonstrated experience
and appropriate and articulated responsibilities. If volunteers will play a significant role, that
has been described.
2) An effective promotion and marketing plan is in place which supports the project's
participation goals and fosters broad public awareness and/or engagement.
3) The public art project has a complete and realistic timeline.
4) The budget revenue streams are realistic, attainable and the cash match is likely to be met;
expenses are reasonable and appropriate while honoring the work of artists
5) Thorough research for the proposed public art site is complete and approval has been
obtained for the installation/performance of work.
6) Proposal outcomes describe measurable and achievable change in knowledge, attitude,
skill, behavior, or condition among the people the project is designed to benefit.
7) The evaluation plan includes appropriate methods to measure and document project
completion, effectiveness, and progress toward stated outcome(s) and identifies how results
will be used (adjustments to the project, informing future programming, sharing with
stakeholders or peers, applicant learning and development, etc.).
14. Project Director Person designated by the applicant organization to oversee the
implementation of the proposed public art project. • Director Name • Director Phone •
Director Email • Director Bio
Joshua Mollan
Economic Development Specialist
763-635-1041
jmollan@elkrivermn.gov
Josh Mollan is the Economic Development Specialist for the City of Elk River. He
has been with the city for two years after completing his Masters in Public
Administration from Hamline University. Josh is currently the staff liaison to the
Beautification and Public Art Committee and along with other economic
development department staff, reinvigorated the city's public art initiative after
their 2021 project, Slipstream. Josh is a confident drawer and painter and
passionate about securing additional public art for the residents and visitors of
Elk River.
15. 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]
Carey Dean
Minneapolis, MN
612-889-6228
carey2art@gmail.com
careydean.com
16. 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)
Carey Dean will be the sole artist on “Where Energy Flows”.
17. 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.
The Beautification and Public Art Committee has worked all fall and winter to
produce and publish an RFP and review proposals. The committee made the final
recommendation to the EDA in April. The EDA approved their financial
contribution in April as well. The final artwork and placement are to be
approved at the April meeting of the Multipurpose Facility Commission.
Members of the community and the Beautification and Public Art Committee will
show Carey Dean around the natural areas suggested for inspiration in late
spring. Carey will begin fabrication in fall with installation and the reveal to be
scheduled in late spring 2025.
18. Describe any research completed regarding the safety and structural requirements of
the Public Art. Examples include environmental impacts, engineering requirements, safety
concerns, lighting, etc.
The city building department will ensure that the specific location within
Furniture and Things Community Event Center can support the weight and
mounting technique of “Where Energy Flows”.
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]
As the City of Elk River and its subsidiaries are the applicant as well as the site
owner, no further agreement is needed. Internal communication along with
approval of the pursuit of public art installation by the Multipurpose Facility
Commission should satisfy this requirement.
20. What is the estimated lifespan of the work? List or estimate the duration of time before
“permanent” works will require major maintenance or repairs. For temporary public art 1
year or less, describe how the art will be documented and shared.
“Where Energy Flows” is a permanent piece of work that would only require
wiping off dust and fingerprints every few years with a soft cloth and glass
cleaner.
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.)
The city multimedia team is excited to partner with the artist as well as the
Beautification and Public Art Committee to produce a high-quality video that will
highlight the creation process and the committee backing of the project. The
local newspaper, the Star News, has already shown interest in covering the artist
and project. The city social media accounts will produce several posts garnering
online attention. In addition, the city will market and hold a reveal with the artist
and elected officials to publicly welcome the project to Furniture and Things
Community Event Center.
22. 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.
Once complete, the City would expect to see increased engagement and
conversation regarding public art in the community in general, and “Where
Energy Flows” specifically.
Additionally, we would work with the Elk River Star News to ensure a positive
article is published on the new piece of art in the community.
Finally, by adding Google Map pins for this and other public art, we can view and
respond to public reviews, as well as increase visibility of the pieces.
23. Measurable Outcomes Summary – Briefly describe outcomes for the proposal. Proposals
funded by Minnesota’s Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund are required to provide a summary to
be posted on the Legacy.mn.gov website.
We hope that visitors of Furniture and Things Community Event Center will
have a heightened appreciation for the arts and grow their interest for all public
art in the city.
24. CMAB Program Outcomes – Select all that are relevant to the proposed project:
X 1. Regional residents experience a change in knowledge, attitude, behavior or
condition
X 2. Accessible public art contributes to community identity, culture or history
X 3. Regional artists connect to new audiences and/or build relationships that
provide artistic growth
25. Evaluation Methods - Describe the evaluation methods that will be used to measure the
proposed outcomes.
It would be intended to conduct a running survey alongside the artwork as well
as shared on the Elk River Economic Development Facebook page.
26. Evaluation Plan/Methods Summary – Briefly describe evaluation plans to measure
outcomes. Proposals funded by Minnesota’s Arts & Cultural Heritage Fund are required to
provide a summary to be posted on the Legacy.mn.gov website.
The committee will gather to discuss relevant survey questions that cover the
desired outcomes. The survey could be provided in a QR code format that
would be straightforward to patrons of FT Center. The results would then be
brought back to the committee to disseminate further.
27. Reflection and Action - Describe how your organization will utilize the information
obtained from evaluation.
The valuable information gathered in the survey will guide the committee and
the EDA in their future procurement of public art. In addition, relevant
information will be shared with Carey Dean to foster her professional growth as
a female mid-career artist from Minnesota.
PROPOSAL BUDGET
28. Download the Excel Budget Template, complete and save a copy in .PDF format to upload
to the application. Save the completed excel budget template. If awarded, the template
includes a second worksheet that will be required to complete the final report.
29. Amount Requested – Cannot exceed 75% of Eligible Expenses. Round up to the nearest
dollar.
$8,000
30. 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.
$12,000
31. Total Proposal Expense – All costs associated with this proposal. Must match Total Expense
in budget form. Round to the nearest dollar.
$20,000