Title
Evaluation and Selection of Grant Proposals Received in Response to Cultural Arts and Arts Programming Request for Proposals
Body
To: Honorable Chairperson Gillitt and Members of the Public Art Commission
BACKGROUND
Alameda Municipal Code (AMC) Section 30-98 Public Art in New Commercial, Industrial, Residential and Municipal Construction (Ordinance) requires that major development projects include on-site public art. The Ordinance also permits an applicant to pay a fee in-lieu of providing the art on-site. Any in-lieu fees collected are deposited in the dedicated Public Art Fund (Fund). The Fund can then only be used by the City of Alameda (City) to provide or support public art.
In December of 2020, the Public Art Commission (PAC) identified the creation of a public art master plan (Plan) to guide the implementation of the City of Alameda’s public art program, in alignment with the vision and goals of the City Council, PAC and Alameda community. Year one of the Five-Year Action Plan included in the Plan, which outlines actionable tasks associated with seven key recommendations to be taken over the next five years, identifies the “release [of] a grant application for Cultural Arts and Arts Programming”.
Throughout the development of the draft Plan, staff received feedback from the PAC, arts organizations, artists, as well as members of the community regarding the timing, scale, and regularity of cultural arts and arts programming grants. This feedback has predominately expressed a desire for consistent grant calls that equitably and accessibly encourage a broad array of applications and applicants.
Building off the cultural arts and arts programming RFP issued in 2022 (RFP), in December 2023 staff presented to the PAC for consideration a draft RFP with proposed publication in January 2024. The PAC approved an RFP to provide eight grants totaling $60,000 of Fund monies for cultural arts and arts programming in Alameda. The RFP was released on January 22, 2024, with all proposals due on March 21, 2024.
The Cultural Art and Arts Programming RFP (Exhibit 1) included two different award levels at the following amounts:
• Four (4) $10,000 awards
• Four (4) $5,000 awards
The purpose of this evening’s meeting is to evaluate the Cultural Arts and Arts Programming proposals and award four (4) grants in each award category.
DISCUSSION
A total of twenty (20) proposals were received in response to the RFP. The evaluation process for these proposals, as described in the approved RFP, includes two steps:
1. Staff pre-screening: All applications will be pre-screened by City staff to ensure that they meet the minimum qualifications:
a. Includes all of the elements listed in the “Proposal Requirement” section.
b. Proposing organization is a non-profit or public agency.
c. Proposed cultural arts event will be free of charge to general public, and located within the City.
2. PAC Review: The PAC will evaluate and rank the applications on a scale from 1 to 100 and make award selections based on the following factors:
|
Proposed Event or Program |
An assessment of the proposed event or program and how it will benefit the broader community and engage local arts and culture groups and individuals. |
35% |
|
Experience / Capacity |
An assessment of the organization’s experience and/or capacity to implement programs and projects to enhance local arts and culture. |
25% |
|
Budget |
Inclusion of reasonable cost estimates within desired grant amount. |
10% |
|
Schedule |
Inclusion of realistic program schedule. |
10% |
|
Equity and Accessibility |
Proposal is accessible and addresses cultural equity, diversity, and inclusiveness. |
10% |
|
Leveraged funds |
Use of additional federal, state, philanthropic or other funds for the project. |
5% |
|
Local Preference |
Artist and/or arts organization based in the City of Alameda. |
5% |
Staff has completed the pre-screening and found that all proposals meet the minimum qualifications. PAC is asked to evaluate the proposals and make four (4) award selections in each award category ($5,000 award and $10,000 award). Note that a number of grant proposals indicated they would be open to receiving either a $5,000 or $10,000 award. These proposals are presented in a separate category. A brief description of each proposal, as submitted by each organization, is presented below.
$10,000 Award Category
Proposal Name: Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Festival
Organization: Forward Alameda, Inc.
Date: September 15, 2024
Proposal Description: The Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Festival will be a one-day, no admission, outdoor production highlighting the unique cultural aspects of the many countries of the Asian Pacific Islander community by creating “country pavilions” containing displays, exhibits, and activities developed by individuals who represent each unique culture. The event is proposed to be held adjacent to City Hall West at Alameda Point and Forward Alameda, Inc. has been in contact with Lincoln Property Company about securing a license for use of the site.
Forward Alameda will provide the assets and management of the overall production and establish “culture committees”, consisting of local residents and organizations, to provide content representation of the country. The committees would be encouraged to highlight various aspects of their culture through exhibits, displays, activities, and demonstrations. Committees would receive additional funding and production support from the FA production team so that traditional foods and beverages that require special tenting, prep and cooking equipment, and regulatory compliance could be offered. FA will also provide and manage a main stage and sound system so that culturally appropriate major performing arts could be presented to a larger audience.
The full submission for Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Festival can be found in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: <https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/nv9vsvwxhhx1aasog2k1h/h?rlkey=trgsf3xb7j0xyunwtf0w2uyss&dl=0>
In addition, the full submission for Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Festival (aside from any video submissions) can be found in Exhibit 2.
Proposal Name: Culinary Bridges - A Multiracial Solidarity and Storytelling Project
Organization: Just Cities Institute
Date: June 29, 2024
Proposal Description: The Just Cities Institute aims to celebrate the Bay Area's and the City of Alameda’s culinary history with "Culinary Bridges" in the Summer of 2024, uniting the community through the power of food and storytelling. The event will bring together local chefs representing Black, Latinx, Southeast Asian, and Indigenous cultures, alongside Bay Area photographers and videographers, to weave a tapestry of multiracial solidarity. Chefs will prepare a dish of cultural significance and engage in storytelling about their culture’s impact in the Bay Area, particularly in social justice movements. The program will be open to the public and is planned to be held at the Leydecker Recreation Center on Bay Farm Island. Just Cities Institute has been in contact with Alameda Recreation and Parks Department about use of the facility. Just Cities Institute will target community organizations, and the caregivers of our society, to attend and feel cared for and nourished. Attendees (coalition partners and broader community members) will delve into the rich narratives behind each dish, sparking conversations that bridge communities. The feast and its stories will be captured, creating digital storytelling to fuel ongoing engagement and inspire collective action and unity.
The full submission for Culinary Bridges - A Multiracial Solidarity and Storytelling Project can be found in Exhibit 3 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/qu82le1wd0yrq0lsnjxrt/h?rlkey=i4qyct4jbh7glxov2n5etgyvp&dl=0
Proposal Name: Words That Made the Difference: Brown v Board of Education
Organization: 1000k Trees for Humanity
Date: May 16th and 17th, 2024
Proposal Description: The project includes a theatrical production of: Words That Made the Difference: Brown v Board of Education, to be performed in coordination with Alameda Unified School District, and the creation of a curriculum for teachers to use before the production. The performance will be free of charge and open to the public. The project seeks to allow. students to learn history via the arts, and the play teaches the landmark case of desegregation, and how the reversal of ‘Separate but Equal’ changed the nation. In the article, Integrated Schools: Segregated Curriculum, Walsemann and Bell (2011) posit that in-school segregation still exists on many levels, hence segregation still affects teens. Being able to present the cases of Brown, and, and the continued effects of differing types of segregation, may open one avenue of discussion for students, who experience separation and segregation in many ways, leading to isolation, loneliness, and other mental health issues. The target audience is high school students and teachers.
The full submission for Words That Made the Difference: Brown v Board of Education can be found in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/f0l9wg7motb0yttznr9ug/h?rlkey=lxt94pf9xp2z74b8fz1i9ek0m&dl=0
In addition, the full submission for Words That Made the Difference: Brown v Board of Education (aside from any videos included in the submission) can be found in Exhibit 4.
Proposal Name: Alameda Native Food Project: ACORNS!Bud
Organization: Alameda Native History Project
Proposal Description: In an effort to educate the public about Native American Arts, History, and Culture, the Alameda Native Food Project will host a series of hands-on experiences. Steps will be taken to provide hands on cultural arts education in basket weaving, participation in acorn harvest (a traditional cultural event), and culinary arts instruction featuring both historic and contemporary Native American cuisine. The proposed series of events will be offered to the public free of charge. And water, snacks, and lunch will be provided for attendees who register or get (free) tickets in advance. Hands on experiences will include:
1. Acorn Granary Challenge:
• Challenge the public to create "the best" acorn granary using natural materials gathered or sourced locally. Will have weekly meetings to work on granaries. Winners will be decided upon after over-wintering with actual acorns inside.
2.City-Wide Acorn Harvest
• Inviting the public to come out and harvest acorns in Alameda. Participants will have the ability to join existing harvest crews or form their own. Acorns will be sorted and stored in the completed acorn granaries.
3.Alameda Native Food Project: ACORNS!
This third component will teach participants how to process acorns and through kitchen classes and packaging courses, providing participants opportunities to taste traditional food, learn how to bake muffins and cookies with acorn flour.
• The full submission for Alameda Native Food Project: ACORNS! can be found in Exhibit 5 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: <https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/typyzxa3jzzlrbhmmdkvk/h?rlkey=8r9pgk6qwn6zck43i8bnktzml&dl=0>.
Proposal Name: Rogue Cinema: A Roving Film Fest & Printed Matter/Storytelling Library
Organization: SF Institute of Possibility
Date(s): January - March 2025
Proposal Description: This project envisions the renovation of a vintage 1960s bus to become an indoor/outdoor traveling film theater, performance mini-platform, and library of handmade, underground and ephemeral printed matter for browsing, borrowing and exchange. The Rogue Cinema bus will set up at Ferry Point in partnership with a host site (pending: Radium Runway, Off the Grid food truck market, Faction Brewery or another local host), co-programming three days of presentations by Alameda-based and other artists, storytellers and performers, after-dark screenings, panel discussions and library browsing time. Robust outreach efforts, in coordination with Alameda and other Bay Area organizations and groups, would be conducted. Offerings would be free to attend.
Example presentations include screenings of "Who is Bozo Texino?", an impressionistic documentary about train car graffiti, demonstrations from Makerfarm beekeepers, coffee roasters and other resiliency projects, salon-style panels featuring underrepresented arts creators led by the Creative Culture Club, and sunset variety arts performances evoking the age of traveling circuses with clowning and live music.
One core value of the SFIOP is to center, feature and elevate sidelined or marginalized voices of gender, racial and socioeconomic inequality, by prioritizing these stories and performances in our programming. We also design the process to collaborate and co-create with our presenters to open and shape decision-making together from the start.
The full submission for Rogue Cinema: A Roving Film Fest & Printed Matter/Storytelling Library can be found in Exhibit 6 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser:
<https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/lp3ro5bvv0c0s8c98wabq/h?rlkey=2ne6az5oruhojiuhzc86j3nx9&dl=0>
Proposal Name: Pinball Works by Contemporary Artists
Organization: Pacific Pinball Museum
Date(s): Five (5) weekend days in July, August, and September of 2024
Proposal Description: The Pacific Pinball Museum proposes to bring selections of locally produced handmade works of art that were created with pinball machines to public locations from Alameda Point to Bay Farm Island. Along with 5 playable pinball machines, the proposed project will include five (5) interactive kinetic sculptures built by Alameda artisans for the pinball museum. All our pieces have an educational bent to them, and the presentations will be staffed with explainers to help them get the most out of the experience. Some of the artists will be on hand to discuss their work with visitors and engage interested parties.
We plan to select five (5) public spaces in Alameda to set up our presentation. Using the museum’s liftgate truck we will be able to unload and set up quickly. We have a solar powered portable generator to power the entire exhibition. Each installation will be open to the public for 4 hours and then refurbished at our Annex (at Alameda Point) in preparation for the next event. We will use our social media outlets to announce each exhibition with ample lead time to alert Alameda residents as well as attract visitors to our beautiful city and a unique art event. This will be the first time this group of art machines and sculptures have been viewed in public and the interactivity encourages exploration bringing out the kid in all of us.
The full submission for Pinball Works by Contemporary Artists can be found in Exhibit 7 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/ex7l6lo1ccsyw86qpzx6c/h?rlkey=kniwao9qmv9wa4popz959d9lr&dl=0
Proposal Name: Rhythmix Rising Seas Project
Organization: Rhythmix Cultural Works
Date(s): June 8, 2024; August 24, 2024; May 2025; June 2025; July 2025
Proposal Description: Rising Seas will highlight a diversity of Bay Area ensembles who share Alameda’s concerns about rising sea levels. To convey a global perspective on climate change, artists including Maze Daiko, Gamelan Sekar Jaya, Batey Tambó and Hālau Ka Ua Tuahine, will include traditional dance and music about the sea in their performances, and talk about the impacts of climate change on their cultural traditions and island homes of Japan, Bali, Puerto Rico and Hawaii. Under the direction of Jeff Raz, three theatrical characters from the past and present will struggle to understand how humanity finds itself in a climate predicament and deliberate about the actions needed for a sustainable future. Beginning with the “big dig” of the Tidal Canal in 1902 that gave birth to the “Island City of Alameda,” stories of the land beneath their feet will push audiences to see Alameda’s history through a new lens. Interviews with climate adaptation leaders and local residents expressing the joys and concerns of island life will be used to launch the Rising Seas project and inform the community about climate actions underway before the exhibit and performances begin. Select voices will be blended into a soundscape designed for ODC/Dance choreographer KT Nelson. KT will work with local dancers and artist-created seaweed ropes to indicate rising sea levels and flood lines. Teaching the audience simple movements for drinking, treading water or extending a helping hand, the dancers will provide an immersive art experience that encourages the community to work together.
The full submission for Rhythmix Rising Seas Project can be found in Exhibit 8 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: <https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/nl3gpzoaqg2f8x5ad53w6/h?rlkey=0cm77802bmnc02qvomkk0mvkb&dl=0>
Proposal Name: ArtPush Annual Event Programming 2024
Organization: ArtPush DBA Studio 23 Gallery
Dates: Various
Proposal Description: Funding would support four (4) of the many free art events ArtPush hosts every year at Studio 23 Gallery. Additional funding sources to support the art events have not yet been identified for 2024 but in previous years have relied predominately on small donations from individuals and organizations. The four free art events that would be supported by this grant include:
1. The Creative Art Program Workshop & Gallery Opening:
A free workshop and gallery exhibit created by Jessica Warren as a result of using artwork as a way to heal from past traumatic experiences. The program encourages social-emotional learning and self-expression, empowering children to envision a bright future. ArtPush is currently working in collaboration with G.E.M.S. from Girls Inc. of the Island City in Alameda.
2. The Alameda Summer Art Fair & Maker Market:
The annual Alameda Art Fair and Maker Market enables local artists and makers to get exposure and sell their work to the public. The annual Art Fair serves to bring Alameda and Bay Area artists together with the greater community.
3. The Blacklight Art show:
This free outdoor LED and UV Light event is held every October in the parking lot of Studio 23. This show includes over 25 local artists displaying huge interactive LED, black light sculptures and paintings. The event features special indoor and outdoor installation pieces, black light paintings, L.E.D. sculpture art, body painting and live black light painting with local artists, live music with local bands, and Halloween treats. In addition to Studio 23, Ryan LaLande Studios and Resistance Press 510 will participate in this event.
4. 2nd Friday Art Walk:
An ad-hoc group of galleries and studios that coordinate events and openings to promote art and culture in the Alameda community as well as support local artists.
The full submission for ArtPush Annual Event Programming 2024 can be found in Exhibit 9 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser:
<https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/ygcdd84br5cc7f7sicjdr/h?rlkey=iiyp2364gngy60f4cvzt9yx3j&dl=0>
$5,000 OR $10,000 Award Category
Proposal Name: Back To The Base: Narrative Collage and Decommissioned Histories
Organization: Alameda Naval Air Museum
Date(s): Events Fall 2024; Publication Spring 2025
Proposal Description: Back To The Base aims to explore the deeper, often overlooked, history of this strange patch of landfill at the end of our city. We are currently collecting stories and archiving images from Alamedans of all walks of life about their experiences on the decommissioned Alameda Naval Base. History takes shape through a collage of lives and experiences, and this project will use both audio and visual media to capture, amplify, and celebrate this particularly Alamedan history. The proposal seeks to be accessible to the public across real-time events and enduring installations. Oral histories will be shared via podcasts, live storytelling events, and printed material, such as zines. Original collage artwork, centered around images and detritus from the Alameda Naval Base past and present, will be presented during live events, and physical prints will be made available to the public and via community art making sessions.
The proposed project would also install semi-permanent, self-guided QR code tours to allow those exploring the Alameda Naval Base in the present day to allow people to dip deeper into this fascinating history and integrate the past into our daily lives while increasing community engagement and ownership of this history.
Both aspects of this proposed program are designed to work in concert with the stories and experiences of everyday Alamedans, past and present, to better celebrate and preserve our city’s history.
The full submission for Back To The Base: Narrative Collage and Decommissioned Histories can be found in Exhibit 10 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: <https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/7fjyr45zwuqpvtlsc3i5p/h?rlkey=lqjnu42b760k60vi6y8q6eyck&dl=0>
Proposal Name: Skyward Seascapes
Organization: Five Ton Crane
Date: TBD Spring 2025
Proposal Description: In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, there is always a yearning for moments of magic and awe-inspiring beauty. Skyward Seascapes aims to create just that by bringing to life a sea creature themed parade with larger-than life, interactive puppets dancing in the sky, captivating, and enchanting audiences of all ages.
This proposal covers fabrication including materials and labor for creating one of the signature pieces of the parade, the Leafy Sea Dragon. The fabrication process would begin in May, 2024 and the Leafy Sea Dragon will be completed by January, 2025. The parade will feature a diverse array of sea creatures brought to life by skilled puppeteers who will use movements, interaction, and lighting to create a spectacle intended to transport audiences to an underwater wonderland.
The full submission for Skyward Seascapes can be found in Exhibit 11 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: <https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/lobcpuvcj32g0guyebhcx/h?rlkey=snpcndwbg20qlkvb5d2to34e5&dl=0>
Proposal Name: Together in Motion Dance Festival
Organization: Little Opera House Inc., dba Radium Presents
Dates(s): August 3rd or 4th, 2024
Proposal Description: The Together in Motion Dance Festival is a dynamic, one-day festival featuring a diversity of movement and dance styles. Held at Radium Runway, the event will serve as an event to inspire artistic expression and cultural exchange. The festival will feature a dance tournament showcasing the talents of local and regional dancers in various styles, including Breaking, Hip-Hop, Popping, TURF dancing, and more. These competitions seek to provide a platform for dancers to showcase their skills and foster camaraderie within the dance community. Attendees will have an opportunity to participate in workshops led by renowned dance instructors, offering insights into different dance styles, techniques, and cultural significance, catering to all skill levels.
The festival will also include live performances by professional dance crews and local talent As well as interactive activities, such as dance battles and open dance floors, encouraging attendees to actively participate and express themselves.
The Together in Motion Dance Festival aims to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all community members to enjoy. The event also features a kids' zone with age-appropriate activities, craft vendors, food trucks, and a classic car exhibition. These additions are intended to make the festival culturally relevant and family-friendly and a space where there is something for everyone to enjoy.
The full submission for Together in Motion Dance Festival can be found in Exhibit 12 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: <https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/i3kl66llqc0bijtjs71vf/h?rlkey=oel762novwrbrdt8u4urr8x4c&dl=0>
Proposal Name: CHamoru Language Through Arts Program
Organization: Inafamaolek.us
Date: July 13th and 14th, 2024
Proposal Description: The Chamoru Language Through Arts Program will utilize an indigenous pedagogy - a communicative, experiential and intergenerational approach to teaching.
The Language Through arts program will be offered over two days: Saturday, July 13 and Sunday, July 14, 2024, to provide access for local people and commuters to participate. The goal will be to build a safe language speaking community and equip participants with basic blocks of conversational language by having an experience with cultural arts.
Course Topics:
1. Binaba Opening - Reawakening our knowledge & healing trongkon familia or Manggåfa (family and genealogy)
2. Fino' Chamoru Basics - common everyday expressions; how to ask for or locate things and people, around the house, in the yard, at a party or store; describing yourself and basic feelings (health and wellness).
3. Lina'lai yan Tinayuyot - foundational chants, songs, arts and crafts, songs and prayers.
Staff Training:
- Increased appreciation and knowledge of Chamoru cultural arts, traditions, and values.
- Build a community of intergenerational Chamoru speakers
- Strengthened intergenerational bonds within and between families through shared learning experiences.
- Share appreciation of the Chamoru cultural arts
- Motivation among participants to continue practicing and learning Chamoru culture beyond the program
By integrating language learning with cultural arts and manåmko’ (older adult) collaboration, this proposal hopes to generate a lasting impact on participants to experience Chamoru culture and contribute to the revitalization and preservation of Chamoru heritage.
The full submission for CHamoru Language Through Arts Program can be found in Exhibit 13 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: <https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/4syv7qmbgvcm5iabqkw9d/h?rlkey=p8bujiriquhyhm1zdrtc4ouqz&dl=0>
Proposal Name: RE-CYCLE: Redefining Our Landscape with Resilience and Hope
Organization: West End Arts District
Date: September 26th, 27th, and 28th, 2024
Proposal Description: Re-Cycle is a multimedia performance created on Building 25 at Alameda Point with BANDALOOP, the vertical dance company, envisaging the re-wilding of the Alameda Naval Air Base. Combining dance surfaces both vertical and horizontal, with music composed for the project by Ben Juodvalkis and lighting created by lighting designer Jim French, this Alameda site-specific artwork explores the cycle from shoreline to military base to commercial space and back to wetlands, imagining how nature and art might reappropriate this heavy industrial landscape. Dancers shift from being ‘grounded’ on the structure and on custom platforms within the girders to the freedom of flight, suspended within the massive spaces on harnesses hanging from the girders.
Thanks to generous support from Radium Presents and the City of Alameda, West End Arts District was able to conduct a one-week research and development session at Building 25 in September 2023. Tara Pilbrow worked with the BANDALOOP team to assess the rigging needs, develop staging and lighting ideas and work on initial choreographic ideas for the piece. That week culminated in two open rehearsals when over 300 people came to observe the creative process and learn about our long-term vision for the piece. This was also a vital opportunity for company members to interact with city staff and members from the design team at CMG Landscape to better understand the vision and key objectives for De-Pave Park.
The full submission for RE-CYCLE: Redefining Our Landscape with Resilience and Hope can be found in Exhibit 14 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/xma4j2ln6glr8rxuyolkb/h?rlkey=bn8i7qibqy5hh73a2cd0o2lig&dl=0
Proposal Name: La Bayadere Production in New Black Box Theater
Organization: Alameda Civic Ballet
Date: June 22nd and 23rd, 2024
Proposal Description: Alameda Civic Ballet (ACB) is eager to enhance Alameda's cultural scene by converting its studio space located at 1402 Park Street into a black box theater and showcasing "La Bayadère" highlights this summer and launching new, original ballet productions. This initiative aims to provide a versatile venue that fosters intimacy and innovation in ballet, aligning with the city's cultural aspirations. The proposed black box theater performance space will serve as a pivotal stage for ACB to present highlights from "La Bayadère," allowing audiences to experience its dramatic and aesthetic beauty up close. Moreover, this space will be instrumental in developing and premiering original contemporary ballet works, offering a platform for creativity and modern storytelling through dance.
This grant will support the production of "La Bayadère", while conversion of the black box theater will be supported by private donations and sponsorships. Preparation for the performance begins in March, culminating in two proposed showings on June 22 and 23.
The full submission for La Bayadere Production in New Black Box Theater can be found in Exhibit 15 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/kaededvm6gjxqbs059put/h?rlkey=8gyi4pwra3k5t0eofw0dlqlke&dl=0
Proposal Name: Flight Lessons Musical
Organization: Fractured Atlas, Inc
Date: September 7th and 8th, 2024
Proposal Description: "Flight Lessons" is a one-hour twenty-minute, two-act, 16-song musical featuring six actor musicians. The action centers on an urban wildlife biologist (“Hank”) who monitors a breeding pair of Peregrine Falcons (“Haya” and her mate “Hiko”) who nest on the Fruitvale bridge between Oakland and Alameda, and how their lives intersect with each other and those of other human inhabitants of the neighborhood. Writer Deborah Crooks seeks to offer one to two (1-2) public performances of 'Flight Lessons' musical at a publicly accessible location such as Jean Sweeney Open Space Park, Bridgeside Shopping Center Performance Glade or The Webster St. Healing Garden during Fall or 2024 or Spring 2025 (pending the award date). If possible, these performances would coincide with other environmentally related programming such as Earth Day (4/22) or International Migratory Bird Day (second Saturday in May) related events. Performance(s) will be offered free to the public with reservations (via a service such as Eventbrite).
The full submission for Flight Lessons Musical can be found in Exhibit 16 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/3o6qmp131v0o14pxjesib/h?rlkey=dx6337v5t5vajm3sehamj1d5o&dl=0
Proposal Name: Radio Day by the Bay 2024- Live! In Alameda
Organization: The California Historical Radio Society
Date: July 27th, 2024
Proposal Description: Radio Day is a single day event on July 27, 2024, that will include a mix of interactive, educational, and entertainment elements to engage a wide audience of all ages and backgrounds. The program will include:
Morning
• Opening Ceremony: Welcome speech by CHRS representatives highlighting the agenda and the importance of preserving radio history.
• Keynote Address: A prominent Bay Area Radio Personality discusses the importance of preserving communications and broadcasting history.
Interactive/ Entertainment Activities
• Live Radio Broadcast: A special live broadcast featuring music, interviews, and segments paying homage to classic programming.
• Museum: An exhibition showcasing rare and iconic radio sets from various eras, with docents available to discuss the history and significance.
Afternoon
• Radio Technology: Demonstrations of the latest in radio technology including digital broadcasting and software defined radio.
• Radio Play Performance: A live performance of a classic radio play, complete with sound effects and voice actors, offering a nostalgic experience.
• Radio Hall of Fame: Announcing those individuals who have significantly contributed to the world of broadcasting and will be inducted into the Bay
Area Radio Hall of Fame.
• Entertainment: Performances by bands and artists celebrating the close relationship between radio and the music industry.
Closing
• Acknowledgements: Closing remarks by CHRS officials reflecting on the day’s events and acknowledging participants and volunteers.
• Community Radio Time: An open mic session for attendees to share their radio stories and the impact of radio on their lives.
This program aims to blend historical appreciation with forward-looking discussions, ensuring a comprehensive celebration of radio's past, present, and future.
The full submission for Radio Day by the Bay 2024 - Live! In Alameda can be found in Exhibit 17 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/4cpbte67fib3sn3lmc8g6/h?rlkey=7n4lfaxdxuxjzl443hucnl3r5&dl=0
$5,000 Award Category
Proposal Name: Fiesta Alameda
Organization: West End Arts and Entertainment District
Date: July 21st, 2024
Proposal Description: Building on the strength of the first two Fiesta Alameda festivals, West End Arts District’s 2024 event will combine a carefully curated program of music and dance, with engaging and educational kids crafts, beer and wine from local Latin-owned breweries and wineries, a diverse selection of Latin food vendors and a selection of artisan vendors. An exciting new program suggested by our 2024 Advisory Group is a collaboration with a number of teaching artists who will share short performances and participatory workshops. We hope to feature teaching artists from:
La Peña Cultural Center (Oakland)
Since 1975, La Peña Cultural Center has been a central site for Latinx, Caribbean, and Indigenous diasporic communities of the Bay Area to preserve and celebrate cultural traditions, present new interdisciplinary creative works, and to nurture grassroots social justice movements with artists, activists, and allies.
In Lak’ech Dance Academy (Oakland)
The first queer salsa and bachata dance academy in the U.S, In Lak'ech Dance Academy is led by Angélica Medina and Jahaira Fajardo. This new addition to the program allows the festival to integrate and support another layer of the Latin cultural ecosystem of the East Bay, building connections with a network of local organizations promoting Latin culture in the Bay Area.
The full submission for Fiesta Alameda can be found in Exhibit 18 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: <https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/htoj07dx1rpfsru4ge0a0/h?rlkey=a5vog3jiwjjcv1bwok4uun9ot&dl=0>
Proposal Name: Rhythmix in the Parks: Multicultural Family-Friendly Concert Series and 'Round the World Festival
Organization: Rhythmix Cultural Works
Dates: May 18th, 2024; June 15th, 2024; July 20th, 2024; and September 21st, 2024
Proposal Description: Rhythmix in the Parks will present three (3) free family concerts and an afternoon-length ‘Round the World - Music, Dance & Art Festival, between May and September, 2024 at various Alameda city parks. The program will feature multicultural performances and hands-on art activities for the residents of Alameda and the East Bay, highlighting music and dance from Africa, Asia, Southeast Asia, Latin and South America and the Pacific Islands, honoring the people and cultural traditions of Alameda’s diverse community and beyond. Rythmix Cultural Works (RCW) will partner with local organizations to facilitate cultural art activities, food vendors to provide culinary fare and the Alameda Free Library to curate relevant collections with their Book Mobile. RCW will provide supplemental learning materials on its website that attendees can download before or after the events, providing background information about geography, history, culture, language, music traditions, instruments and more.
Rhythmix in the Parks is designed to foster awareness of world cultures and empower Alameda residents through exposure to multicultural traditions, including educational performances of music and dance to help instill a sense of pride and belonging. Presenting free performances in partnership with the Alameda Recreation and Park Department will establish connections to new and renamed city parks as safe spaces to be enjoyed by the entire community, where everyone belongs and is welcome. RCW believes that exposure to the arts can be a transformative experience that promotes empathy and compassion.
The full submission for Rhythmix in the Parks: Multicultural Family-Friendly Concert Series and 'Round the World Festival can be found in Exhibit 19 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser:
<https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/4ool2nf3mgs6rr1byejix/h?rlkey=k8vgktm1w10o69xiane7coxvz&dl=0>
Proposal Name: Alameda - Here is Anywhere, A Cinematic Celebration!
Organization: FunAmeda Productions LLC
Date: TBD
Proposal Description: FunAmeda Productions seeks to host a mid-week, 5-hour event at the Alameda Comedy Club to showcase and screen our recently produced film, Alameda - Here is Anywhere (PG-13) free of charge to a wide, diverse local audience. The Alameda Comedy Club is an accessible venue, with seating for approximately 120 guests, and a state-of-the-art sound and projection. The venue serves food and drink and, while normally requires a two-item minimum purchase per guest, has agreed to be fully free to the public and be open to all ages.\
FunAmeda proposes to screen the film twice, with seatings at 6:45 and 8:30 pm. In addition to the Alameda Comedy Club staff, FunAmeda will have two paid staff members on-site working the event. The event will also feature a hired special guest emcee to provide entertaining commentary before, during and after the screenings - including a Q & A with members of the film’s cast and crew and a fun Alameda quiz game - with prizes! Noteworthy Alamedas will be present to offer insights and some history of the City of Alameda. All guests will receive a free movie poster as they exit the Club.
The full submission for Alameda - Here is Anywhere, A Cinematic Celebration! can be found in Exhibit 20 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/jesfo6z78em6dw9au88kf/h?rlkey=j32ku6at6yfkckr2ajh85vagt&dl=0
Proposal Name: The Foodbank Players
Organization: The Foodbank Players
Dates: April, July, and December 2024
Proposal Description: The Foodbank Players is seeking funding to support its upcoming productions in 2024: Macbeth in April 2024, As You Like It in July 2024, and A Christmas Carol in December 2024. Foodbank Players has traditionally relied on yard sales and the donations of community members to cover its minimal production costs (script printing, promotion, liability insurance). We did receive support from the West End Arts District and West Alameda Business Association for our first two shows. Part of our creative ethics has been to use and reuse donated set pieces and for actors to costume themselves or use pieces from our small costume collection. Were we to be awarded this grant the funds would be used to enhance our shows with better sets, costumes, and props.
The full submission for The Foodbank Players can be found in Exhibit 21 or in a Dropbox folder that can be accessed by pasting the following URL into your browser: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/bs6y03d0r68wgqwqn8gqi/h?rlkey=nv8unw0cp5z6zvxcv2g76tsev&dl=0
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the PAC evaluate and select grant proposals received in response to the Cultural Arts and Arts Programming Request for Proposals.
Respectfully submitted,
Walker Toma, Community Development Manager
Secretary, Public Art Commission
cc: Lois Butler
Exhibits
1) 2024 City of Alameda Cultural Arts and Arts Programming RFP
2) Asian Pacific Islander Cultural Festival
3) Culinary Bridges - A Multiracial Solidarity and Storytelling Project
4) Words That Made the Difference: Brown v Board of Education
5) Alameda Native Food Project: ACORNS!
6) Rogue Cinema: A Roving Film Fest & Printed Matter/Storytelling Library
7) Pinball Works by Contemporary Artists
8) Rhythmix Rising Seas Project
9) ArtPush Annual Event Programming 2024
10) Back to the Base: Narrative Collage and Decommissioned Histories
11) Skyward Seascapes
12) Together in Motion Dance Festival
13) CHamoru Language Through Arts Program Proposal
14) RE-CYCLE: Redefining Our Landscape with Resilience and Hope
15) La Bayadere Production in New Black Box Theater
16) Flight Lessons Musical
17) Radio Day by the Bay 2024- Live! In Alameda
18) Fiesta Alameda
19) Rhythmix in the Parks: Multicultural Family-Friendly Concert Series and 'Round the World Festival
20) Alameda - Here is Anywhere, A Cinematic Celebration!
21) The Foodbank Players