HomeMy WebLinkAboutCSD-06-056 - Victoria Hills Community Centre Public Art Competition
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Community Services
Report To:
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Date of Report:
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Subject:
Community Services Committee
May 1 , 2006
Cheryl York, Arts/Culture Facilitator Ext 3381
Cheryl York
Ward 6
April 25, 2006
CSD-06-056
VICTORIA HILLS COMMUNITY CENTRE PUBLIC ART
COMPETITION
RECOMMENDATION:
That Council endorse the commission of an artwork titled "Toyland" by Nicholas Rees
for the renovated Victoria Hills Community Centre; and further,
That the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to sign an agreement, satisfactory to the
City Solicitor, with Nicholas Rees regarding the obligations of this commission.
BACKGROUND:
In accordance with the "Percent for Art Policy" (Finance 1-650), the 2006 Victoria Hills
Community Centre capital project was eligible for a public art feature. Public art processes link
artists and communities and contribute to community identity through fair and informed public
competitions. The Victoria Hills community consulted with the Arts/Culture Co-ordinator in 2005
to produce a desired theme for this artwork. In February 2006, a public competition was
announced through print and electronic media. Eight design proposals were received by the
March 1 0, 2006 deadline.
REPORT:
On March 17, 2006, an appointed jury consisting of community representatives, City staff, the
architect's representative and the Ward 6 councillor met at Victoria Hills Community Centre to
review the submissions. A consensus was reached with the choice of Nicholas Rees' proposal
titled "Toyland".
Mr. Rees proposed a bas-relief sculpture consisting of four wall-mounted panels, with outside
dimensions totalling 36 inches x 82 inches. A selection of children's toys will form the design in
the cast cement panels. The panels will be installed in the centre's reception area/gathering
space.
Report No. CSD-06-056
Page 2
Mr. Rees stated in his proposal that the artwork is similar in concept to the one he completed for
the Downtown Community Centre in 2005. He pointed out the ability of a tactile surface to
encourage children to explore the artwork. Its durable material makes it impervious to such
handling. Maintenance of this type of work is also minimal. The project involves establishing a
relationship with the community. People will be invited to assist in the collection of toy samples.
Mr. Rees anticipates a project timeframe that begins in May 2006 and ends in December 2006.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
The Victoria Hills Community Centre public art commission is funded at $13,000 from capital
account 636038. Additional administrative expenses related to the competition process and
installation expenses are estimated at $4,500 from the same account.
COMMUNICATIONS:
The Victoria Hills Community Centre public art project is guided by the principles detailed in the
Percent for Art Policy. These principles guarantee a fair and public process. An open call for
proposals was advertised in print and electronic media. Extensive consultation with the
community occurred before the call for entry was published and later during the jury process.
The process requires the ongoing co-operation of staff from various departments. A
neighbourhood event will be celebrated at the time of the unveiling of the art work.
Cheryl York
Arts/Culture Facilitator
AP