HomeMy WebLinkAbout031324 Sp. Meeting 4.3 PAP PARKS, RECREATION AND ARTS COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
4.3
TO: Parks, Recreation and Arts Commission March 13, 2024
SUBJECT: Consider approval of the Public Art Project Wood Carved Acorn
BACKGROUND
A public art opportunity has presented itself to the Town due to the removal of an oak
tree located adjacent to the Town Meeting Hall in the parking spaces near the north side
of the Village Theatre and within the future site of the Theatre Plaza. The oak tree was in
poor health and cut down to a stump. The remaining stump was kept in an effort to
explore the potential of turning it into public art.
Staff had an arborist examine the stump, who deemed it in good condition. Staff also
reached out to a local wood carving artist who was able to examine it for its viability to
become a carved art piece. The artist found it to be a viable canvas from which to create
a wood carving.
At its November 15, 2023, meeting, the Arts Advisory Board was presented a rendering
of the proposed carved acorn as shown below from a local wood artist. After
discussion, the Arts Advisory Board requested to see another rendering that included
an oak leaf.
At its January 10, 2024, meeting, the Arts Advisory Board was presented an updated
rendering with an oak leaf attached. After discussion, the Arts Advisory Board
approved the rendering as seen below.
DISCUSSION
Carving an acorn and oak leaf from an oak tree stump would serve as a powerful
homage to this revered Town symbol. This would not only honor the town's deep-
rooted connection to these iconic trees but also serve as a testament to the enduring
spirit and unity of its residents.
The stump is approximately six feet in height and measures about three feet across the
top. Once approved and finalized, it is anticipated that the project could be completed
within a week.
The Parks, Recreation and Arts Commission is being asked to review and provide
feedback and approval of the wood-carved acorn as a public art project.
FISCAL IMPACT
Sufficient funds have been appropriated in the Town's Capital Improvement Program,
Project B514, Public Places for Art, to cover the cost of the artwork and installation.
RECOMMENDATION
Consider approval of the Public Art Project Wood Carved Acorn.
Prepared by:
Jessica Wallner
Recreation Superintendent
Reviewed by:
Henry Perezalonso
Recreation, Arts & Community Services Director
Attachment: A – Acorn Rendering