HomeMy WebLinkAboutCSD-08-046 - Revised Agreement, Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Public Art
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Community Services
Report To:
Date of Meeting:
Submitted By:
Prepared By:
Ward(s) Involved:
Date of Report:
Report No.:
Subject:
Community Services Committee
May 12, 2008
Cheryl York, Arts/Culture Co-ordinator
Cheryl York Ext 3381
Ward 1
April 25, 2008
CSD-08-046
REVISED AGREEMENT, KITCHENER MEMORIAL
AUDITORIUM PUBLIC ART
RECOMMENDATION:
That an existing agreement with artist Ron Baird for "The Gathering Tree" be amended to
include costs for unanticipated increases in material costs totalling $3,000.00; and
further,
That the Mayor and Clerk be authorized to execute the amended agreement, subject to
the satisfaction of the City Solicitor.
BACKGROUND:
In accordance with Finance 1-650 "Percent for Art Policy", the 2002/3 Kitchener Memorial
Auditorium upgrade was eligible for a public art feature. The budget for artwork was $50,000.
A one-stage competition process was approved and implemented in late 2007. Thirteen
submissions were reviewed by the public jury. The jury's selection was a sculpture proposal by
Ron Baird. With CSD-08-008, Council considered and approved a commissioning agreement
between Mr. Baird and the City.
REPORT:
Mr. Baird's work, titled "The Gathering Tree", is a site-specific polished stainless steel sculpture
in the shape of a tree, approximately 25 feet in height. The top third of the sculpture features
three arm-like steel panels of laser-cut maple leaf shapes. The sculpture is "kinetic", that is, it
responds to wind with a rotating motion. In addition, the polished surfaces reflect sunlight and
artificial light. Stainless steel materials and the design features minimize the risk of vandalism
and environmental damage, and decrease the frequency and complexities of specialized
maintenance. "The Gathering Tree" will be a unique centrepiece for the plaza and the Memorial
Auditorium.
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS:
The artist's proposed budget, compiled late in 2007, reflected the best information available at
the time in terms of material costs. The artist allowed $2,000 for contingencies.
We have received a letter from the artist, asking for consideration of changes: "The new
engineering requirements for a heavier and larger support and the dramatic rise in the cost of
stainless steel since the original budget was prepared have resulted in increased material costs
of $5,000."
Staff recommends that Mr. Baird apply his contingency fund to this increase, and that the City
contribute a $3,000 supplement from Account 636014.
CONCLUSION:
The upcoming public art policy and program review (spring/summer 2008) will consider and
make recommendations concerning the improved administration of budget surpluses and
shortfalls.
Cheryl York, Arts/Culture Co-ordinator
I. P.