The Southfield City Council unanimously approved an ordinance to establish a Public Arts Commission at the October 20 City Council Meeting.
The City Council voted to approve Article VI, Public Arts Commission, to Chapter 4, Boards and Commissions, of Title 1 of the City Code. The ordinance will create and establish a new Public Arts Commission for the city of Southfield. The Commission will be comprised of nine members, six of whom will be appointed by the City Council, with the remaining three members appointed by the Mayor with Council confirmation.
“A vibrant art scene creates a more livable city and enhances a sense of place,” commented Councilman Ken Siver. “At one time, Southfield had a strong cultural arts council that faded over time. With this new Commission, we want to bring back a greater public arts presence to Southfield in all of its various manifestations.”
The City Council determined the need to form a public arts commission to advocate for, promote and participate in the establishment, selection and installation of public artwork in the city. The Public Arts Commission will promote the arts in Southfield by establishing physical works of art in public places throughout the City. The Public Arts Commission will develop a comprehensive public art plan for the City, including: long term objectives, criteria for the selection of artists and works, potential locations for placement, and overall standards and guidelines. Upon completion of the plan, the Commission will present their recommendations to City Council for review and approval. The Commission will also actively raise funds for the acquisition and installation of public works of art through a capital fundraising campaign, application of grants, private sponsorship, donations, and other fundraising strategies.
Numerous studies have demonstrated the positive economic impact that public art can have on a local and regional level through the promotion of tourism and economic development. Public art has been shown to enhance a community’s character and identity, promote the cultural heritage and artistic development of a city, expand the opportunities for residents to experience public art, and to improve the lives of its citizens through the humanization and individualization of public spaces and structures.
The Southfield Public Arts Commission will not just be an advisory commission, rather a working one that is actively engaged with the community while seeking development opportunities to promote and fund public art throughout the city. The Commission shall be responsible for developing and implementing a public art program to provide for the acquisition, placement, and display of works of art within public areas of the Southfield. “Works of Art” will include all forms of visual arts, including: sculpture (in any material or combination of materials); painting (all media, including portable and permanently affixed works, such as murals and frescoes); photography; mosaics; mixed media (any combination of forms or media including collage); water features and fountains; and streetscape and landscape features and elements, including signage, lighting, benches, clocks, kiosks, and planters.
“Public art is an important part of defining a community and creating a more thriving, walkable and energetic city,” added City Planner Terry Croad. “I am looking forward to working with the Commission on educating the public on the value of public art and on future installations.”
The Commission will develop relationships with local, regional and national artists, galleries, museums, art professionals, architects, community members, other governmental entities, and businesses to establish public works of art priorities in the City. The Commission will also work with the City’s Planning, Community Relations and Parks & Recreation Departments to create and implement a community education and outreach program regarding public art and to promote community identity through public works of art within neighborhood and business districts.
For more information or to apply, contact the City Clerk’s Office at (248) 796-5150 or visit www.cityofsouthfield.com and then click on ‘Boards & Commissions’ on the City Clerk’s page under the ‘Government’ tab at the top.
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