Never has a theme been more true! On Monday May 1, the
Public Art Advisory Commission (PAAC) met to discuss the future of art in
Windsor and more specifically, art on the two roundabouts on Old Redwood
Highway. On December 21, 2016 the Town Council approved the installation of
“Slice,” a sculpture by the late Robert Ellison, for the Roundabout at Windsor
Road (Roundabout 2) pending a thorough engineering analysis. At the Monday PAAC
meeting, the engineering report showed the concrete to be insufficient for “Slice”
and the Commission recommended an alternate location will be found for the
sculpture. Keiser Park is currently the top location. Additionally, the
artist agreement for “Offering,” the Bruce Johnson sculpture located on the
Roundabout at Market Street, is set to expire in June 2017.
Given these circumstances, the Commission revisited the
original inspiration and theme for art in those roundabouts, “Art is Energizing
the Community”. The call included the following vision for the theme:
”A submission should incorporate
some sort of energy production from natural elements. This project will
introduce the possibility that art can be positive for the mind as well as the
environment and is building from the concept that technology can also be
beautiful. It is the display of art through wind, solar, movement and other
kinetic opportunities.“
The PAAC is committed to this theme and now has a better
understanding of the challenges which come with temporary installations. The
next steps will be to identify a budget needed to commission or purchase two
sculptures which reflect the original vision the Commission had for the
Roundabouts. This will likely exceed the funds allocated within the Town budget
and the Commission will be seeking outside donors to sponsor this project. If
you or your company is interested in more information, please contact Olivia
Lemen, Management Analyst, Parks and Recreation Department, Town of Windsor, at 707-838-5383 or olemen@townofwindsor.com.
