Title
Approval of the Grass Lake Nature Park Public Art Project Artist
Recommended Action
Move to approve the Arts Commission recommendation of Abe Singer as the Grass Lake Nature Park Project Artist.
City Manager Recommendation:
Move to approve the Arts Commission recommendation of Abe Singer as the Grass Lake Nature Park Project Artist.
Report
Issue:
Whether to approve the recommendation of Abe Singer as project artist for Grass Lake Nature Park Public Art Project.
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:
The Grass Lake Nature Park Public Art Project centers around a large (10’ diameter x 23’ long) mild steel water tank (3/8" thick) on the park property to be repurposed for three sculptural elements to be sited in the park:
• One bird blind (approx 6’ x 10’) along the boardwalk for viewing of the birds without being seen by them.
• Two entry elements sited at the entrances to the park along Harrison Avenue and Kaiser Road, welcoming visitors to the park and continuing the use of the steel tank material as a theme throughout the park. These entry elements can be more artistic, and sized at the artist’s discretion.
At 195.71 acres, the park contains the headwaters of Green Cove Creek and one of the most environmentally intact wetland systems in northern Thurston County. Over 100 bird species and 200 plant species have been recorded in the park.
Grass Lake Nature Park's primary functions are wildlife protection, wildlife viewing, and environmental education. Artist reuse of the steel tank will have several benefits, such as redirecting salvage material for creative reuse and offering the opportunity for deeper connection to the recent history of the site. Artists will also participate in one community meeting/site visit with students from the neighborhood middle school to learn about the science of the site, and a concept plan presentation with the Olympia Arts Commission.
On December 14, 2023, Commissioners reviewed the jury recommendation of three semi-finalists from seven applications received for the Grass Lake Nature Park Public Art Project. Prior to interviews conducted on Wednesday January 3, one of the finalists removed their application, due to an already ambitious work schedule.
Following the two interviews, the jury unanimously recommended Abe Singer for the project. Nature is an inspiration in Mr. Singer’s work, and he is well versed in the use of repurposed materials. He articulated a strong resonance to the redevelopment vision and relationship to the environment and materials, speaking to accessibility, ways to connect and a strong appreciation for the tank and its possibilities.
If approved, following the contract process, the schedule for design development and approval follows:
• January 2024 City Council approval of project artist
• March - May 2024 Concept plan development and City Council approval, including one community meeting/site visit with Citizen Science Institute students from Thurgood Marshall Middle School to learn about the science of the site, and a concept plan presentation with the Olympia Arts Commission.
• June 2024 Park construction projected to begin
• July 2024 Steel tank available for selected artist
• September 2024 Artwork installed
Climate Analysis:
Utilizing repurposed material from the site reduces need for virgin materials and the associated carbon used for processing and transportation.
Equity Analysis:
This project includes collaboration with Citizen Science Institute students at Thurgood Marshall Middle School.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Public art is of great interest to the Community.
Financial Impact:
$32,000 from the Municipal Art Fund has been approved for the artist contract.
Options:
1. Move to approve Abe Singer as the project artist for the Grass Lake Nature Park, and direct staff to move forward in the project.
2. Do not approve Abe Singer as the project artist for the Grass Lake Nature Park, and do not move forward in the project.
3. Make an alternate decision.
Attachments:
Project Artist Recommendation