Title
Recommendation to Approve the Attached Resolution and Conditions Approving “MetalMorphosis @ the Launch” Public Art Proposal for Launch Apartments at 1777 Clement Avenue
Body
To: Honorable Chair and Members of the Public Art Commission
BACKGROUND
Alameda Municipal Code Section 30-98 Public Art in New Commercial, Industrial, Residential and Municipal Construction (Ordinance) requires that major development projects dedicate 1% of development costs to on-site public art. Building costs for 1777 Clement Avenue are estimated at $70,000,000. Therefore, the public art obligation is $700,000.
At tonight’s meeting, the Public Art Commission (PAC) will consider the artwork proposed for 1777 Clement Avenue. The proposed artwork by 1AM Projects (Daniel Pan and Antione Marnata) entitled “MetalMorphosis” consists of a series of murals painted on nine (9) utility boxes (Exhibit 1). The value of the proposed installation is estimated to be approximately $62,500. The remaining $637,500 of the project’s public art obligation will be fulfilled through an in-lieu contribution to the City’s Public Art Fund.
DISCUSSION
The PAC is responsible for reviewing and approving public art proposals to ensure compliance with the following program criteria established by the Public Art Ordinance:
The artist has demonstrated qualifications to complete the proposed on-site artwork with the highest professional standards.
Staff comments: Staff finds that Mr. Pan and Mr. Marnata’s resume, and examples of previous work demonstrate the experience and qualifications required to complete the proposed artwork to the highest professional standards.
There is sufficient public visibility and accessibility to the on-site artwork, and the proposed on-site artwork is compatible with and harmonious with the development project and surrounding environment.
Staff comments: The proposed artwork would be located on nine utility boxes that are clearly visible from public right of ways. AS shown in Exhibit 1, the nine utility boxes are located in areas either visible from a publicly accessible parking lot, pedestrian path or public street (Alameda Marina Drive). This location would provide ample visibility for passing pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorists. Installation of the artwork will comply with all Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.
The proposed on-site artwork is durable and cost-effective to maintain using ordinary methods of maintenance.
Staff comments: The proposed artwork would be easy to maintain and durable. The proposed artwork would be hand painted with several layers with a high-quality exterior paint. In addition, the artworks will also have an additional UV protectant coat covering the surface to preserve the original intended paint colors and make for easy maintenance surface cleaning.
The budget for the proposed on-site artwork and any in-lieu fees proposed by the applicant is equivalent to or exceeds the required program allocation.
Staff comments: The budget for the proposed artwork ($62,500), in addition to an in-lieu contribution of $637,500 would satisfy the project’s public art requirement, which is based on the estimated value of the site’s existing artwork, adjusted for inflation.
RECOMMENDATION
Approve the attached resolution and conditions approving the “MetalMorpohsis @ The Launch” public art proposal.
Respectfully Submitted,
Walker Toma, Development Manager
Exhibits:
1. MetalMorphosis @ The Launch Public Art Application
cc: Lois Butler