Report Prepared by: Jennifer Flachman, Senior Management Analyst
Title
SUBJECT: Approval of Smiley Riley Utility Box and Youth Leadership Institute Skate Park Mural Art Projects
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers approving the Smiley Riley Utility Box and Youth Leadership Institute Art Projects.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopt a motion approving Smiley Riley Utility Box and Youth Leadership Institute Art Installations for the Skate Park Mural Art Projects.
Body
DISCUSSION
On November 11, 2022, the Arts and Culture Advisory Commission received two proposals for art projects. On March 16, 2023, the ACAC approved both projects for City Council’s consideration.
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