Report Prepared by: Jennifer Flachman, Senior Management Analyst
Title
SUBJECT: Commission to Approve the Recommendation by the Future Arts Subcommittee for the Bob Hart Square Arch Sculpture by Jesus Eduardo Magana, Paulina Bouyer-Magana, and Jason M. Saunders
REPORT IN BRIEF
Commission to approve the recommendation by the Future Arts Subcommittee for the Bob Hart Square Arch Sculpture by Jesus Eduardo Magana, Paulina Bouyer-Magana, and Jason M. Saunders.
RECOMMENDATION
Arts and Culture Advisory Commission - Adopt a motion approving the recommendation by the Future Arts Subcommittee for the Bob Hart Square Arch Sculpture by Jesus Eduardo Magana, Paulina Bouyer-Magana, and Jason M. Saunders.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve, as recommended; or,
2. Deny; or,
3. Refer back to staff for further study.
AUTHORITY
Charter of the City of Merced, Section 200.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
As provided for in the City Council Goals and Priorities: Public Works & City Beautification.
DISCUSSION
As part of the 2024/25 Budget, the City Council allocated $100,000 for art installations across Merced. Staff received approval for a sculpture for the Bob Hart Square Arch.
The Bob Hart Square Sculptural Element Project will enhance the cultural and historical identity of downtown Merced through the installation of a permanent public artwork within the existing arch display at Bob Hart Square. The sculpture is intended to recognize the historical significance of Canal Street and the important role irrigation canals played in the early development and agricultural growth of the City of Merced and the San Joaquin Valley.
The City released a Request for Qualifications seeking experienced metal fabrication artists to design, fabricate, and install the artwork. A total of two artist submissions were received and reviewed by the project subcommittee. Following evaluation of the proposals, the subcommittee selected an artist whose concept best reflects the project goals and historical themes associated with Canal Street, water, irrigation, and the transformation of the community over time.
Once completed, the sculpture will serve as a visually compelling focal point within Bob Hart Square while contributing to the continued revitalization and cultural enrichment of downtown Merced.
IMPACT ON CITY RESOURCES
A total of $25,000 in funding is available within the Fiscal Year 2024-25 budget for this expense in the City Manager’s Professional Services Account Line 10001000-511012.
ATTACHMENT
1. Magana
2. Trejomaya