STRATEGIC PRIORITY: Quality of Life
AGENDA DATE: September 25, 2019
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): 2
DEPARTMENT: Office of Cultural Affairs
EXECUTIVE: Joey Zapata
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SUBJECT
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Authorize a contract with Seth Vandable for the fabrication and installation of a site-specific, freestanding, outdoor sculpture at Pike Park located at 2807 Harry Hines Boulevard - Not to exceed $59,348.00 - Financing: Park and Recreation Facilities (B) Fund (2017 Bond Funds)
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BACKGROUND
As established in Chapter 2, Article X of Dallas City Code, the Public Art Program of the Office of Cultural Affairs works to include works of art by visual artists in public places of the city using a percentage of City capital improvement projects. Under this program, a commission for artwork at Pike Park was initiated via community engagement and a request for qualifications for artists to design, fabricate and install a freestanding, outdoor public sculpture to serve as a tribute to Santos Rodriguez.
Artist Seth Vandable was recommended for this public art project by the Selection Panel composed of community members, including a representative of Santos Vivé, artists, and representatives from the Park and Recreation Department.
Artist Background
Seth Vandable began his career as a commercial artist and painter in Central Texas. His background in painting combined with many years of studying human anatomy have contributed to his international success as a sculptor. Vandable strives to capture the intensity of the human spirit in compositions that are both innovative and timeless. His work can be found in private and public collections worldwide.
Seth Vandable conducted extensive research into the death of Santos Rodriguez and its aftermath. His research included speaking with people involved with Santos Vivé Project, Santos’ family and community members leading the efforts to honor Santos Rodriguez. In his proposal, Vandable seeks to address the tragedy so that it can help move the City forward.
Project Description
The figurative sculpture of a child resembling Santos Rodriguez will be approximately 8 feet tall. The figure will rise above bronze stylized figures that are not portraits and do not represent specific individuals. An interpretive panel with bilingual text informed by input from Santos’ family and community input will be considered by the Park and Recreation Board on September 19, 2019 and will be displayed alongside the sculpture.
ESTIMATED SCHEDULE OF PROJECT
Begin final design and fabrication of artwork October 2019
Complete installation of artwork March 2021
PRIOR ACTION/REVIEW (COUNCIL, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS)
On June 7, 2018, the Park and Recreation Board authorized a total public art allocation of $74,185.00 for Pike Park, which includes $59,348.00 for the artist contract.
On September 6, 2018, the Park and Recreation Board authorized the site for the artwork at Pike Park.
On June 20, 2019, the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission approved a recommendation in support of this commission.
On August 14, 2019, the Park and Recreation Board authorized a contract with Seth Vandable for the commission of artwork honoring Santos Rodriguez at Pike Park.
FISCAL INFORMATION
Park and Recreation Facilities (B) Fund (2017 Bond Funds) - $59,348.00
OWNER
Seth Vandable, Artist