One item at the meeting was the approval of an eagle sculpture project proposed by the Morgan Group, a significant developer in the region. Cindy Trapani from Terra Panty Planning Strategies presented the project, emphasizing the public art component associated with the development. Artist Jeffrey Smith, renowned for his eagle sculptures, will craft the piece, which depicts a pair of bald eagles and their young on a nest. The sculpture will be prominently placed at the entrance of the development’s clubhouse, a decision following a previous committee approval of the location in February 2022.

The site for the artwork is notable for its environmental considerations, with an eagle nest preserved on the property. The artwork’s placement ensures public access and visibility, with the sculpture being internally lit for around-the-clock appreciation. Smith, who has experience creating sculptures for the State Department, presented a maquette to the committee, illustrating the size and quality of the final piece, which will be crafted in Florida and cast in Colorado. The committee unanimously approved the proposal, recognizing its alignment with public art requirements and its significance to the local community and environment.

In parallel, the committee addressed the relocation of the Stephen Oliver sculpture, currently at the Citizens Alliance for Progress. The relocation project underwent scrutiny, with the committee considering seven possible configurations for its new site at Dorsett Park. After discussions on safety and accessibility, three options were shortlisted. The preferred choice, which received committee approval, was a triangular layout that allows for viewing from both inside and outside the installation.

This decision followed concerns about safety and the potential for the sculpture to become an “attractive nuisance.” To mitigate these risks, the committee discussed integrating lighting and signage to enhance visibility and inform the public about the artwork’s significance. The committee’s inclination towards the open design option stemmed from its potential to maintain community engagement while preserving the artwork’s original intent.

The relocation discussion also touched on the Visual Rights Act of 1990, with committee members acknowledging the importance of respecting the artist’s intellectual rights. The need for community input was highlighted. The committee plans to organize additional meetings to gather feedback from residents before finalizing the layout.

In other meeting developments, the committee elected new leadership, with Don stepping into the role of chair and Martha as vice chair. This decision followed the resignation of the previous chair. The committee also reviewed its meeting frequency, opting to continue with quarterly meetings due to members’ availability during the summer months. However, they acknowledged the need for additional members to ensure consistent attendance and address pending public art projects, such as the maintenance of illuminated art boxes.

The meeting concluded with public comments, during which Joan Jennings welcomed Martha to the committee and discussed the illuminated art boxes’ condition. She offered her assistance with their upkeep and raised questions about community consultation regarding the sculpture relocation. Joan underscored the importance of adhering to legal obligations concerning the artwork, emphasizing the committee’s responsibility to uphold artist rights and public art standards.