Report Prepared by: Jennifer Flachman, Senior Management Analyst
Title
SUBJECT: Approval of a Second Annual Local Photography Event at Applegate Park, Merced Open Air Theatre (MOAT) as Recommended by the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving a Second Annual Local Photography Exhibition and event at the Applegate Park MOAT as recommended by the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion:
A. Approving Second Annual Local Photography Exhibition and event at the Applegate Park MOAT; and,
B. Authorizing the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommended by staff, or,
2. Approve, subject to other than recommended by staff, or,
3. Deny, or,
4. Refer to Staff for reconsideration of specific items, or,
5. Continue to a future meeting.
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the 2024-25 Council Goals and Priorities: Public Works & City Beautification.
DISCUSSION
This second annual photography exhibition and event will provide a resource and venue for photographers to showcase their original photographs captured in Merced. This opportunity would benefit local artists seeking exposure and a community desiring cultural commitment and nurture a sense of community support for budding and seasoned local photographers.
Hosting a second annual photography event at the Applegate Park MOAT would be an investment in the local art community and the broader population of Merced. This initiative aligns with the City's commitment to cultural enrichment, community engagement, and the support of local talent.
Interested photographers will submit information as required by a Request for Qualifications. Staff and members of an Arts and Culture Advisory Commission subcommittee will plan an evening event on Saturday, December 7, 2024, at the Applegate Park MOAT. Staff will promote the event on the City's social media platforms. The event will be open to the public at no charge.
Fifteen (15) photographers will receive a total of $7,500 in funding, or a $500 stipend as payment for production of a high quality 16x20 photograph. $2,500 will be used for event entertainment and supplies.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
As part of the 2023/24 Budget, the City Council allocated $100,000 for art installation and events across Merced. Since none of the funding was used the budget allocation carried forward into FY 2024/25.
A total of $10,000 in funding is available within the Fiscal Year 2024-25 General Fund budget.
ATTACHMENT
None.