Title
Approval of a Gift of Art Proposal Commemorating the West Olympia Rotary 50th Anniversary
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
The Arts Commission recommends approval of “Life is Water,” by Taylor Wily Krise as a donation to the City Public Art Collection from the West Olympia Rotary Club, and direct staff to place on a future consent calendar an ordinance approving acceptance of the donation and gift of art agreement.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve “Life is Water,” by Taylor Wily Krise as a donation to the City Public Art Collection from the West Olympia Rotary Club, and direct staff to place on a future consent calendar an ordinance approving acceptance of the donation and gift of art agreement.
Report
Issue:
Whether to approve “Life is Water,” by Taylor Wily Krise as a donation to the City Public Art Collection from the West Olympia Rotary Club, and direct staff to place on a future consent calendar an ordinance approving acceptance of the donation and gift of art agreement.
Staff Contact:
Stephanie Johnson, Arts Program & Planning Supervisor, Parks, Arts & Recreation, 360.709.2678
Presenter(s):
Stephanie Johnson, Arts Commission Staff Liaison
Kathy Dorgan, Chair, Olympia Arts Commission
Background and Analysis:
For their 50th anniversary, the West Olympia Rotary Club proposes the gift of a permanent sculpture by local Salish artist Taylor Wily Krise to be placed at West Bay Park. The West Olympia Rotary Club was the major contributor to the park’s Rotary Point overlook, and so the location is of significance to them.
Further details of the gift proposal are in the attachment.
Section 2.100.140 of the Olympia Municipal Code, identifies that one of the duties of the Arts Commission is to review all proposed donation of works of art to the City. The Gift of Art policy states:
A Gifts Panel shall be appointed by the Olympia Arts Commission to review proposed artwork gifts to the City, or Commissioners may choose to review Gift of Art proposals at a regular Commission meeting. Each panel shall consist of at least three to five members representing the Arts Commission. The Arts Program Manager shall serve as facilitator.
On January 11th, the Arts Commission reviewed the proposal during their regular meeting, framing their discussion around criteria in the attached Gift of Art policy. Commissioners were unanimous in their recommendation to forward the proposal to City Council for approval, and commented that a gift of art to the City was a very meaningful way for the West Olympia Rotary Club to celebrate their anniversary.
If the gift of art donation is approved by the City Council, the City of Olympia would receive the donation by agreement, transferring ownership to the City without terms, conditions or restrictions other than the specific location of West Bay Park and the artist request for a Salish blessing and drum circle at the dedication ceremony noted in the attached proposal.
Climate Analysis:
The artwork itself addresses the environment, as the proposal reads “The carving will feature various marine creatures, such as salmon, starfish, octopus and shellfish and other marine life and emphasizing their dependence on clean water for their survival. Additionally, it will showcase the interplay between the marine ecosystem and the broader natural environment. The educational component will be tailored to engage audiences of all ages and backgrounds, fostering a sense of environmental responsibility and inspiring positive change.”
Equity Analysis:
Salish art is not currently well-represented in the City’s art collection. Future development of West Bay Park has been a collaborative process with the Squaxin Island Tribe, and as such, this artwork proposal reinforces established partnerships at the site.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
The West Olympia Club members have been raising funds to cover the cost of the donation.
Financial Impact:
Artwork and installation costs are included in the proposal. The City will provide a recognition plaque, estimated at $300.
Options:
1. Move to approve the proposed gift of art “Life is Water,” by Taylor Wily Krise as a donation to the City Public Art Collection, and direct staff to place on a future consent calendar an ordinance approving acceptance of the donation and gift of art agreement.
2. Review gift proposal of “Life is Water” and provide feedback for staff and the Arts Commission to amend and return proposal.
3. Do not approve the proposed gift of art “Life is Water.”
Attachments:
“Life Is Water” Gift Proposal
Gift of Art Policy