Report Prepared by: Jennifer Flachman, Senior Management Analyst
Title
SUBJECT: Approval of Smiley Riley Utility Box and Youth Council Skate Park Mural Art Projects
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving the Smiley Riley and Youth Council Art Projects for City Council’s Review and Approval.
RECOMMENDATION
Arts and Culture Advisory Commission: Adopt a motion approving the Smiley Riley and Youth Leadership Institute Art Installations.
Body
DISCUSSION
On November 11, 2022, the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission received two proposals for art projects.
Smiley Riley Art Project - A group of friends and family of 16-year-old Riley Hanson, a Merced resident who died tragically in 2018, are keeping Riley’s memory alive with the Smiley Riley art project. Riley’s legacy has spread globally through an art project that spreads kindness through yellow heart smiley faces painted on rocks and small structures. The group proposed a Smiley Riley art installation on the city-owned utility box at 21st and M Street. The Group will cover the financial cost of the project.
Youth Leadership Institute Skate Park Mural at McNamara Park
Members of the Merced Youth Leadership Institute have proposed a mural installation at the McNamara Skate Park. Joel Aguilar, a local mural artist will work with members of the YLI to create and install or paint the mural. The Group will cover the financial cost of the project.
ATTACHMENTS
1. Smiley Riley Proposal
2. Youth Leadership Institute Proposal