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File #: 26-225    Version: 1 Name:
Type: Consent Item Status: Agenda Ready
File created: 3/9/2026 In control: Arts and Culture Advisory Commission
On agenda: 3/19/2026 Final action:
Title: SUBJECT: Commission to Approve the Recommendation by the Future Arts Subcommittee for the Blue Heron Sculpture Project to the Merced County Juvenile Court School REPORT IN BRIEF Commission to approve the recommendation by the Future Arts Subcommittee for the Blue Heron Sculpture Project to the Merced County Juvenile Court School. RECOMMENDATION Arts and Culture Advisory Commission - Adopt a motion approving the recommendation by the Future Arts Subcommittee for the Blue Heron Sculpture Project to the Merced County Juvenile Court School
Attachments: 1. Recycle Sculpture Submission.pdf
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Report Prepared by: Jennifer Flachman, Senior Management Analyst

Title
SUBJECT: Commission to Approve the Recommendation by the Future Arts Subcommittee for the Blue Heron Sculpture Project to the Merced County Juvenile Court School

REPORT IN BRIEF
Commission to approve the recommendation by the Future Arts Subcommittee for the Blue Heron Sculpture Project to the Merced County Juvenile Court School.

RECOMMENDATION
Arts and Culture Advisory Commission - Adopt a motion approving the recommendation by the Future Arts Subcommittee for the Blue Heron Sculpture Project to the Merced County Juvenile Court School

Body
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. The Arts and Culture Advisory Commission has recommended a sculpture project in Fahren's Park made from recycled materials found in the park.

Recycled sculpture art, also known as trash sculpture, or garbage art, challenges our perception of beauty. By incorporating discarded objects found in the park. The sculpture will repurpose our everyday waste.

Selection Summary

The subcommittee selected the Merced County Juvenile Court School proposal because it best met the project's evaluation criteria and demonstrated strong artistic vision, technical support, sustainability, feasibility, and clarity.

The proposal presents a creative interpretation of the Blue Heron while providing a meaningful educational experience for students. Adjudicated youth will collaborate with experienced instructors and artists to design and fabricate the sculpture, connecting the symbolism of the blue heron, strength, resilience, and adaptability, to their own personal growth and contribution to the community.

Technical expertise will be provided by an experienced team, including weldin...

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