SUBJECT: AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF SAN JOSE AND LEWIS DESOTO TO FABRICATE AND INSTALL AN ARTWORK
COUNCIL DISTRICT: 7
Adoption of a resolution authorizing the City Manager to negotiate and execute an agreement with artist Lewis deSoto to fabricate and install an artwork for the Animal Shelter in an amount not to exceed $127,400.
The City of San José will be constructing an Animal Services facility on Monterey Road, south of Umbarger. In addition to kennels and cages to house the animals, the facility will include an adoption gallery, a classroom, veterinary clinic, and areas designated for adoption, including a “get acquainted” area. A public art budget of $182,000 has been identified for the project. The Department of Public Works (DPW) is managing the project.
In order to take advantage of the opportunity to integrate artwork into the architecture, staff recommended to the Public Art Committee artist Lewis deSoto for the project. Mr. deSoto was one of two finalists for the Northside Community Center public art project, which was the result of two community panel reviews: one for the artists’ pool and a second interview for the Northside Community Center project.
In April 2001, artist Lewis deSoto was commissioned to develop a design proposal for the Animal Shelter in an amount not to exceed $27,300.
ANALYSIS
Over the last six months, the artist has been working with DPW’s architect, George Meier & Associates, on an integrated artwork that contributes to the identity of the building. The artist’s proposal includes three elements intended to bring a larger perspective and awareness to our relationship with our pets. Located in front of the central portico structure of the building, are granite silhouettes of a cat and a dog mounted on concrete bases depicting the shape of the building. A 104-foot painted aluminum frieze will be mounted on the curved face of the portico. The images on the frieze are cats and dogs, kittens and puppies playing and relating to each other. The frieze will be illuminated at night. The artist’s proposal also includes eight granite panels, 44” high by 20” wide, inscribed with myths and stories about dogs and cats.
On July 24, 2001, the Public Art Committee recommended Arts Commission approval of the artist’s design. The Arts Commission approved the proposal on August 8, 2001.
Public outreach for this action included national release of a Request for Qualifications seeking artists for the artists’ pool. The recommendations of the selection panel are reviewed by the Public Art Committee, the Arts Commission, and City Council, all of which are publicly noticed meetings.
During the design process, the artist conducted a public meeting. All presentations and approvals for the project have been advertised and noticed meetings open to the general public.
This item has been coordinated with the Department of Public Works, the City Attorney’s Office, the Risk Manager, and the Budget Office.
BUDGET REFERENCE
Fund: General Fund - 001
Amount: $127,400
Budget
Document: 2001-2002 Appropriation
Ordinance #26415
Date: June 19, 2001
Appropriation: Animal Shelter Facility (4813)
Exempt status.
NANCY JOHNSON
Director, Conventions, Arts and Entertainment