HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020 Cultural Arts Commission Agendas & Minutes •
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Cultural,"Arts.Commission
Meeting Agenda
Monday, January 13, 2020
6:00pm
City Hall
Second Floor, South Wing Conference Room
A. Call to Order:
•B. Roll Call:
C. Citizen's Forum:
a. Kari Christensen, Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra, Final Report •
b. Cherie Murphy, Individual Artist Grant Application
c: Rachel Stevens, Individual Artist Grant Application
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
b. Hemmens:
c. Art Showcase:
d. Approval of December Minutes:
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, February Due 1/20. Written by Staff Harris.
b. 2019/2020 ECAC Projects:
i. Kwanzaa Celebration
ii: Americans for the Arts workshops
iii. Elgin FringeFestival
F. Other Old Business:
a. Artwork renovations
G. New Business:
a. Bravo schedule
b. 2020 Organizational Grant assignments
H. Adjournment:
E LGEN
Cultural Arts Commission
Meeting Minutes
Monday, January 13, 2020
6:00pm
City Hall
Second Floor, South Wing Conference Room
A. Call to Order: 6:01pm
B. Roll Call:
a. Commissioners Erlandson, Miceli, Einterz, Forsythe, Kearney, Syrris, and Richmond present.
Chairman Vassallo present. Councilwoman Powell present. Staff Harris and Wilhelmi present.
C. Citizen's Forum:
a. Kari Christensen, Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra (EYSO), Final Report
i. Eric Larson presenting the final report on "When Little Bells Turn to Tears," presented
on May 5th at the Blizzard Theatre at ECC. They serve about 400 students from about 70
communities here in Elgin with music built around a curriculum. "The Little Prince" was
the theme from last year. The students were able to study the book and perform some
of the work as early as March rather than May, as anticipated.The first piece of the
concert in May was a joint piece which was followed by modern pieces, expected
pieces, a 20th anniversary performance of a piece called "The Turtle Dove," and more.
ii. Staff noted the amount of support provided to the EYSO by schools and colleges.
b. Cherie Murphy, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. Cherie proposes to present a staged reading of"Aging with Grace and Humor."The
performance will be offered by playwrights Cherie Murphy and Sylvia Grady. It will be
six actors on stools reading from the play.This play was crafted based on focus groups
and conversations with an aging population. It led to a 14-act staged play including
themes of frustration of technology, dating, and more.The cast is well known and active
•
in the community and will be directed by Richard Pahl.They hope to bring in a new
audience who perhaps don't come downtown.The play will be performed at Imago. Any
proceeds will be donated to seniors in the community. April 29 & 30, 2020 are the dates
for the show.These dates are selected to avoid weekend conflicts and obtain cheaper
rents.
ii. Chairman Vassallo asked about marketing. Cherie noted that posters will be made, a
Facebook event created, senior centers notified, and BRAVO ads placed.
iii. Councilwoman Powell asked the length of the play. Cherie stated it should be about 90
minutes and is planned to start at 7:30pm.They are hoping to be able to take the show
to senior centers. Councilwoman Powell asked if they would consider taking the
admission charge down from the stated $25 per person listed. Imago could probably
seat over 100. Cherie noted that they are not set on that price but it is what they
charged in the past.
c. Rachel Stevens, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. Performing artist, Associate Producer, and Director with Goodly Creatures seeking a
grant to produce "An Ideal Husband" by Oscar Wilde. The play will take place at the
Elgin Art Showcase February 13- March 1, 2020. Goodly Creatures Theatre specializes in
bringing classic works of literature to life in new and exciting ways. Cast and crew will be
comprised of both local and non-local people. All those involved are paid for the time
participating in the show. An after party will take place at the Martini Room and efforts
are being made to partner with the Elgin Public House to offer and dinner and a show
package.
ii. Commissioners noted that they like that the artists are being paid and asked the number
of performances. Rachel answered there will be 12 performances.
iii. Councilwoman Powell asked about how they will sell tickets. Rachel responded that
tickets are sold online as well as at the door. Councilwoman Powell noted that we are
trying to track where people are coming from to attend events. Rachel responded that
they should be able to provide that.
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
i. Final expenses are coming in from 2019.
ii. The budget for 2020 is finalized and approved.
b. Hemmens:
i. January is wrapping up building projects.
ii. February brings in more ESO concerts and talent competitions.Two new competitions
are in this year.
iii. March brings in a new talent competition too.
iv. Summer Theater will be "In the Heights" produced with Up and Coming Theatre
Company.
v. 2021-2022 season is being populated now.
c. Art Showcase:
i. 2020 rentals kicked off this week and will continue.
ii. New carpet was just installed in the hallway.
iii. Boiler repairs are being completed.
d. Approval of December Minutes:
i. Motion to approve minutes by Commissioner Erlandson. Seconded by Commissioner
Richmond.Approved by a vote 7-0-2 of with Commissioners Einterz and Miceli
abstaining.
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, February Due 1/20. Written by Staff Harris.
Focus on the Individual Artist Grant.
b. 2019/2020 ECAC Projects:
i. Kwanzaa Celebration/Juneteenth:
1. The event was recapped at the December meeting.
2. Councilwoman Powell noted that since we are doing Juneteenth, she would take
the opportunity to talk about that event. Wells Fargo has sponsored the event
for$5,000. She noted the event is Saturday,June 13th which is a week before the
actual event(June 19th) in hopes to get a wider range of vendors and
participants. She noted that there are additional meetings to work to obtain
further sponsorships.
ii. Americans for the Arts workshops:
1. There was about 40 people at the first workshop which was focused on audience
diversity and engagement.The speaker was great and very well received.
2. There are currently 72 registered for the second workshop which focuses on
marketing on January 18th from 1-5pm.
3. A final workshop will take place on January 25th from 1-5pm with focus on the
arts and business partnerships.
4. All of the workshops are free and open to the public but require registration.
They all take place at the Hemmens Cultural Center.
iii. Elgin Fringe Festival:
1.
F. Other Old Business:
a. Artwork renovations:
i. Permanent Portable Collection updates are being completed now.
ii. Outdoor sculptures are set for renovations in 2020.
G. New Business:
a. Bravo schedule:
i. Assignments were made and will be sent to the commission.
b. 2020 Organizational Grant assignments
i. Assignments were made and will be sent to the commission.
c. Cherie Murphy, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. Commissioners noted that they did a good job with their last show.They noted a
concern with the cost of the show but were happy to hear that they would revisit that.
Commissioners want to recommend that they lower ticket prices to closer to $18 to be
more accessible.
ii. Motion to approve the Individual Artist Grant in the amount of$1,000 by Commissioner
Miceli. Seconded by Commissioner Kearney. Approved by a vote 9-0.
d. Rachel Stevens, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. Commissioners noted that the presentation and proposal was good and that this play
has never been done in Elgin.
ii. Motion to approve the Individual Artist Grant in the amount of$1,000 by Commissioner
Erlandson. Seconded by Commissioner Einterz. Approved by a vote of 8-0-1 with
Commissioner Syrris abstaining.
H. Adjournment: 7:36pm
a. Motion to adjourn by Commissioner Forsythe. Seconded by Commissioner Richmond. Approved
by a vote 9-0.
i
cuuturo Arts CommistiOn
Meeting Agenda
Monday, February 10,2020
6:00pm
City Hall
Second Floor, South Wing Conference Room
A. Call to Order:
B. Roll Call:
C. Citizen's Forum:
a. John Smentowski, Individual Artist Grant Application
b. Dave Metzger, Individual Artist Grant Application
c. Erin Rehberg, Side Street Studio Arts, 2019 Organizational Grant Final Report
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
b. Hemmens:
c. Art Showcase:
d. Approval of January Minutes:
E. Old Business
a. Marketing •
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, March Due 2/20. Written by Maddie.
b. 2019/2020 ECAC Projects:
i. Americans for the Arts workshops
ii. Elgin Fringe Festival
iii. TalentFest
F. Other Old Business:
a. Artwork renovations
G. New Business:
H. Adjournment:
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Cult
u��l ArtsCommission
Meeting Minutes
Monday, February 10, 2020
6:00pm
City Hall
South Wing, Second Floor Conference Room
A. Call to Order: 6:01pm
B. Roll Call:Commissioners Miceli, Richmond, Kearney, Rehberg, Forsythe, Einterz, Erlandson present. Staff
Wilhelmi present. Chairman Vassallo present.. City Councilwoman Powell present.
C. Citizen's Forum:
a. Joseph Podlasek, CEO of Trickster Gallery
i. Joseph introduced himself to the commissioners, stating that Trickster has done some
events in Elgin in the past and would like to explore more of a dialogue with the ECAC.
Currently working on a piece addressing domestic violence. He stated that there is lots
of art in Elgin and they would like to be involved. Trickster is a Native American
organization but also involves and represents multiple cultures.
ii. Commissioner Rehberg mentioned that Trickster has received ECAC funding in the past
for an event that was held at SSSA that include displays and workshops.
iii. Joseph stated that they love to do workshops because it's hands-on.
b. John Smentowski, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. John proposes to present a photo exhibition of abstract images at Gail Bordon Public
Library in August of 2020._ He explained that he has been interested in photography his
entire life but has become more committed since his retirement. He has taken several
courses at ECC'where he has won several awards and been features in school publications.
Inspired by the work of artist Joey Terrill,John had created a collection of abstract macro
images using different types of water droplets and background objects on multiple layers
of glass. John then uses different lighting techniques and Photoshop in post-production
to create finished pieces: He is requesting a grant from the ECAC to allow him to mount
the photos on to 20"x30" pieces of Masonite and to help offset the expenses of the
marketing and exhibit reception. The exhibit will possibly include a display with John's
workstation to show the process which will be unique and educational.
ii. Commissioner Kearney suggested bigger is better on the size of the prints.
iii. Chairman Vassallo question whether he would be selling to which John replied he's going
to try. .
c. Dave Metzger, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. Mike Rende and Dave presented their proposal to produce Totally Tiki at Artspace on July
10— 25, 2020. Building on their successful Cartoon Cavalcade, this will be an open call
exhibit but they are working on featured artists as well. Mike mentioned that their artist
list, and their patron list are growing. The exhibit will include displays on the history of
Tiki (Polynesian culture), a Tiki Bar; and Art Jam painting on surfboards which will be
raffled off. They are currently narrowing down which NFP to benefit and would like to
focus on environmental groups but hard to find local—not national—groups.
ii.. Chairman Vassallo suggested Friends of the Fox.
iii. Dave mentioned that the event offers a lot of diversity and opportunity. The post-show
reception will be at Martini Room and they would continue to promote the local
• businesses at the event.
iv. Commissioner Forsythe questioned whether they would be real surfboards. Dave
responded that they are researching but may make their own.
v. Councilwoman Powell asked whether they would be charging admission. Dave responded
that they generally do a$5.00 suggested donation. Mike added that last year they raised
$1,500 for the Well Child Center.
vi. Councilwoman Powell ask what was the inspiration for Totally Tiki. Dave replied that Tiki
is iconic lowbrow art and that it's been a goal for a long time.
vii. Commissioner Rehberg commented that she was glad that presenting Polynesian culture
as part of the event.
d. Erin Rehberg, Side Street Studio Arts, 2019 Organizational Grant Final Report
i. Erin reported that with the support of the ECAC,SSSA was able to expand their offerings
and also eliminate the need to take commissions from the artists exhibiting and selling
their works. She added that art sales went from $1,300 in 2018 to"$7,500 in 2019. They
have also expanded their Latino Outreach including a number of solo shows; including
one by Melina Scotte who went on to paint the mural in the Spring Street Garage. The
grant also allowed SSSA to add artists to the Going Dutch Festival, present more gallery
shows and add an Artist in,Residence. Erin stated that they feel there was wonderful
growth in 2019 over 2018 largely because they had more control over the projects. SSSA
looks to continue the current structure into 2020(including MADE,their co-op style store)
and will also continue working to eliminate roadblocks.
ii. Councilwoman Powell asked how the art was selected for gallery shows.
iii. Erin replied that the call-for-art is always open, and applications are reviewed, and
meetings conducted to ensure that the artist is a good fit and that there are mutual
expectations. She explained that Artists in Residence are expected to volunteer at least
six hours per week and at the end of their residence'are given the opportunity to curate
or have a solo show. The Latino Artist in Residence gets a small stipend as well.
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
i. Sponsorships for Elgin Summer Theater and the Elgin Short Film Festival have been
processed.
b. Art Showcase:
i. Goodly Creatures is in Tech this week.
c. Hemmens:
i. Added a Beatles tribute on March 4. The same group that brought in Beatles vs. Stones
in September
ii. Talent Competition season is picking up now.
d. Approval of January Minutes:
i. Motion to approve minutes by Councilwoman Powell. Seconded by Commissioner
Erlandson. Approved by a vote of 8-0-1 with Commissioner Rehberg abstaining.
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, March: Maddie Richmond is working with Jeff
to create and is on schedule(ish).
b. 2017/2018 CAC Projects:
i. Americans for the Arts Workshops: "
1. The consensus among commissioners that attended was that the workshops were
awesome. Also the feedback heard by commissioners and staff was
overwhelmingly positive. Chairman Vassallo stated that he tried to sit with people
he didn't know and thought there was. good regional representation.
Commissioner Kearney inquired about the PowerPoints: There was conversation
of charging a nominal fee in the future.
ii. Elgin Fringe Festival:
1. Commissioner Rehberg reported that the Mini-Fringe held at the Grumpy Goat
was a success. This was echoed by other commissioners and staff that attended.
She stated that there were several new faces in the crowd and that they were able
to pay each of the performers $100. The Grumpy Goat was great to work with
and they are considering holding the nest on there as well. The April Mini-Fringe
will feature solo acts.
2. The call for.Artists for the Elgin Fringe Festival is live and over 70 performing artist
applications have been received already. The calls are open through next Monday.
They have 20 or so visual artist submissions and are hoping for more. The poster
art for 2020 is being created by Jess Rocha.
c. Talentfest:
i. Commissioner Rehberg commented.that she,believes four of the five high schools have
had their shows and urged the commissioners to attend.
F. Other Old Business:
a. Artwork renovations:
i. The Permanent Portable Collection updates are completed and look amazing.
G. New Business:
a. Art &Soul
i. Commissioner Kearney inquired about the ECAC's involvement with the Art & Soul
Festival. Chairman Vassallo explained that there really wasn't a relationship and that in
the past the group organizing the event had a rocky history with,and exhibited an almost
adversarial attitude towards,the ECAC. Commissioner Erlandson stated that she was now
the president of Art-For-All (A4A) which has worked with the city to present the festival.
She explained that A4A would"secure the artists and the city provided $16,000 of
marketing support and labor. She continued that A4A is too small an organization to
organize the event on their own and she would like to see the event move into multiple
storefronts downtown. She.mentioned that with a low booth fee of around $100, the ,
event did not draw the highest quality of art. Councilwoman Powell explained that many
city events are being put on hiatus as the city conducts a survey to determine what types
of events should be done in the future. She mentioned that Art &Soul was back on the
radar specifically since it was suggested that the city could provide $5,000 of funding to
A4A and let them take it over. Commissioner Erlandson responded that she told the
Special Events Coordinator that they aren't really interested in that scenario. She
continued that they can't really quantify the attendance at the event and that she feels
change is needed. Butch mentioned that it seems that attendance numbers have been
dropping. Councilwoman Powell questioned who would organize the event if the city did
provide funding. Commissioner Erlandson replied that it would only be board members
and they might consider it if another organization could partner. Commissioner Rehberg
pointed out that artists have to be able to pivot and adapt.
b. Mary Sweeney Exhibit:
i. Commissioner Rehberg mentioned that the Mary Sweeney exhibit that is currently in the
gallery at SSSA is amazing.
c. John Smentowski, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. Councilwoman Powell mentioned that John is not an Elgin resident. It was noted that it
didn't matter since the event was taking place in Elgin. It was suggested that John's
artwork would be a good utility wrap.
ii. Motion to approve the Individual Artist Grant in the amount of$1,000 by Councilwoman
Powell. Seconded by Commissioner Miceli. Approved by a vote of 9-0.
d. Dave Metzger, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. Commissioners expressed that the event sounded fun and exciting.
ii. Motion to approve the Individual Artist Grant in the amount of$1,000 by Councilwoman
Powell. Seconded by Commissioner Miceli. Approved by a vote of 8-0-1 with
Commissioner Kearney abstaining.
H. Adjournment: 7:25pm
a. Motion to adjourn by Commissioner Rehberg. Seconded by Commissioner Einterz. Approved
by a vote of 9-0.
111,
.CLittUreit;Arts tottinitsgion
Meeting Agenda
Monday, March 9, 2020
6:00pm
City Hall
Second Floor, South Wing Conference Room
A. Callao Order:
B. Roll Call:
C. Citizen's Forum:
a. Barb Broeske, Individual Artist Grant Application
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
b. Hemmens:
c. Art Showcase:
d. Approval of February Minutes:
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, April Due 3/19. Written by staff Harris on utility
box wrapping or asphalt art.
b. 2019/2020 ECAC Projects:
i. TalentFest
ii. Elgin Fringe Festival
iii. Juneteenth
F. Other Old Business:
a. Call for Art
G. New Business:
H. Adjournment:
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CulturalArts ommissi
Meeting Agenda
Monday, March 9, 2020
6:OOpm
City Hall
Second Floor,.South Wing Conference Room "
A. Call to Order: 6:11pm
a. Commissioners Rehberg, Einterz; Miceli, Erlandson, and Richmond present.
Chairman Vassallo present. Councilwoman Powell present. Staff Harris and
Wilhelmi present.
B. Roll Call:
C. Citizen's Forum:
a. Barb Broeske, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. Barb is presenting a proposal titled "A Portrait of DC Cook Building:An
Elgin Icon."The proposal is to mount an exhibit of images featuring the
DC Cook Building, which is potentially being demolished.The history of
the building as well as the architect will be the subject of the exhibit. The
goal of the exhibit is to highlight a piece of Elgin that makes Elgin unique.
ii. The exhibit will likely be located at the Gail Borden Public Library, free
and open to the public.This location is not yet definite. The location goal
is to be in the place where the most people will see it. Ideally,the exhibit
will take place in May in conjunction with preservation month. If the
exhibit doesn't take place at the library, it will be somewhere in Elgin
such as the Elgin History Museum or Elgin Artspace Lofts.The exhibit will
be up for a month. Once the exhibit is over, the pieces will continue to be
on display in other locations as themes and spaces allow.
iii. Marketing will include social media. Marketing would also be inclusion on
community calendars and the partner's media outlets.
iv. Grant funds would be used to print and mount the images and the
exhibit.The images would be for sale. Most images would be printed on
metallic paper that is face mounted to plexi glass and aluminum.This
mounting technique protects the image fully. Most will be printed near
16x24 or 20x24.These are printed and mounted in Seattle and shipped to
the artist. Approximately 6-8 pieces will be printed as part of the exhibit,
depending on the size; the larger the prints the higher the cost so fewer
pieces are possible. Printing them with a different vendor in a different
way reduces cost and allows for more pieces.
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
i. Organizational Grants went to City Council and were approved.
Documents were signed and payments will be sent in the next few weeks.
ii. TalentFest costs have come in andfinal charges will be paid out soon.
b. Hemmens:
i. Beatles tribute last week as ok and the show was great.The show
included the story of The Beatles.
ii. Mariachi workshops were added last minute for.youth..The students
worked with the professional mariachi musicians and played with them in
the lobby.
iii. U46 TalentFest is this week
iv. Lots of Talent competitions and kids shows coming up.
v. May brings auditions for Elgin Summer Theatre: "In the Heights"
vi. Extra hand sanitizers and Clorox wipes are posted around the building.
c. Art Showcase:
i. Season renters are in for March.A few one-day renters will be in in April.
• Schaumburg on Stage, Independent Players, and Elgin Theatre Company
are back in later March and April.
d. Approval of February Minutes:
i. 'Motion to approve the February Minutes by Commissioner Reherg. ,
Seconded by Councilwoman Powell.Approved by a vote of 7-0.
E. Old Business '
a. Marketing .
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, April Due 3/19. Written by staff •
Harris on utility box wrapping or asphalt art.
ii. Meeting with Alan at Xat Media later this week to finalize the marketing
plans and spending.
b. 2019/2020 ECAC Projects:
i. TalentFest:
• 1. The event is tomorrow, March 10th, at the Hemmens. There will
be no emcee but rather each school will have their own emcee,
which is new this year.The U-46 Foundation has been promoting
it a lot this year which has also been helpful., •
ii. Elgin Fringe Festival:
1. Spring Mini-Fringe will be happening April 26th at Grumpy Goat
Tavern.Tickets are on.sale soon. This event is all one-person
shows.
2. Artist Announcement will be happening at the end of March.
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3. Overall.there have been over 70 performing artists apply.This
year, while still first-come-first-served,there is a portion reserved
for artists who identify as under-represented.
iii. Juneteenth:
1. Sponsorship applications and food vendor applications are live.
2.. The Facebook page and event pages are up.
3. The PSA for the ECAC sponsorship is being processed.
4. The entertainment portion of the event is planned to include
African dancers and drummers as well as a Reggae band.There
will also be a local band participating.
5. Possibly including a graffiti wall using saran wrap between trees.
iv. Elgin Short Film Festival:
1. The Call for Entries is set to go live on April 15Y.This year's call may
also include a video introduction. Utilizing Film Freeway again this '
year.
2. This year they hope to grow attendance.
3. Chamber Music on the Fox will be participating again. Hopefully
this year will include an original score to an old film.
a. Next year may include a call for original-film score
competition. .
F. Other Old Business:
a. Call for Art
i. The Call for Art deadline has been extended to April 2nd. Please share the
call. -
G. New Business:
a. Barb Broeske, Individual Artist Grant. - .
i. Commissioners noted that the cost of printing the photos is quite high for
only a.few pieces to be printed. Commissioners.noted that this is the-
second exhibit at the library and.wonder'how those exhibits have existed
previously. Commissioners noted that the project is very timely.
Commissioners noted that she was very open to suggestions.
Commissioners noted that theylike her work but it doesn't feel like there •
is a plan yet, but that the only thing noted was that the work would be
printed and put up somewhere.There was no mention of a reception or
how to market the exhibit. Commissioners also noted that the budget
seemed incomplete since there was no real plan for how anything was
• being spent other than most of the cost was-going to the printing.
• - Commissioners invite Barb to apply again with amore definitive plan, •
complete budget,venue, and marketing plan. '
b. Motion to deny the Individual Artist Grant in the amount of$1,000 by
Commissioner Miceli. Seconded by Commissioner Rehberg. Approved by a vote
of 70.
H. Adjournment: 7:56pm
a. Motion to adjourn by Commissioner Rehberg. Seconded by Commissioner
Erlandson. Approved by a vote of 7-0.
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E:.LS. "IN
• ',CLitturat Ar s:Commi sior _
Meeting Agenda :~
Monday, April 13, 2020
l �
}
6:00pm
City Hall
Second Floor, South Wing Conference Room•
A. Call to Order:
B. Roll Call: �•
C. Citizen's Forum:
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report: .
b. Hemmens:
c. Art Showcase: "
d. Approval of March Minutes: '
E. Old Business
a. Marketing "
b. 2019/2020.ECAC Projects: ; .
i. TalentFest .'
ii. Elgin Fringe,,Festival ' /
iii. Juneteent '.
iv. Elgin Short~FiIm Festival..
F. Other Old Business: \ -
Via:" Call foriArt ' : '
G. "New Business: `
H. !Adjournment:
' • \,;..
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ELG
Cutturat.Arts Commission'
Meeting Agenda L
Monday, May 11, 2020 if
6:00pm �\ `� .
City Hall
„
Second Floor, South Wing Conference Room r•,.
A. Call to Order:
B. Roll Call: r
C. Citizen's Forum:
D. Staff Report:
t1
a. Financial Report: - - `4, '•
b. Hemmens: ;, \,, N
c. Art Showcase: •
d. Approval of March Minutes: • -
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
b. 2019/2020 ECAC Projects:
i. TalentFest r` ,` j
ii. Elgin Fringe Festival -.
iii. Juneteenth
iv. Elgin ShortFilm Festival
F. Other Old Business:
a: ..,Call for/Art •
G. /,New Business: :
H. Adjournment:
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E LG I N
Cultural Arts Commission
The Cultural Arts Commission meeting regularly scheduled for June 8, 2020 has
been cancelled.
The next special meeting of the Cultural Arts Commission is scheduled for June 22,
2020 at 6:00pm at the Hemmens Cultural Center.
Meetings will resume their regular schedule and in July barring unforeseen
circumstances.
Should you have any questions regarding this posting, please contact staff liaison,
Amanda Harris at harris a@cityofelgin.org
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u tt rot Arty;C`c�rx lrrili si ii
Meeting Agenda
Monday, June 22, 2020
6:00pm
City Hall
Hemmens Cultural Center, Exhibition Hall
A. Call to Order: •
B. Roll Call:
C. Citizen's Forum:
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
b. Hemmens:
c. Art Showcase:
d. Approval of March Minutes:
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO,August Due 7/20.
b. 2020 ECAC Projects:
i. TalentFest
ii. Juneteenth
iii. Elgin Fringe Festival
iv. Elgin Short Film Festival
v. Going Dutch Festival
vi. Shakespeare in the Park
F. Other Old Business:
G. New Business:
a. Covid Response, ECAC Recommendations.
b. Public Art Recommendations
• i. Call for Art
ii. Utility Box Wrapping
iii. Neighborhood Public Art Grants
iv. Spontaneous Art Wall
v. Asphalt Art Project
H. Adjournment: .
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Cultural Arts CoMrnisSion
ies
Meeting
Monday, June 22, 2020
6:00pm
City Hall
Hemmens Cultural Center, Exhibition Hall
A. Call to Order:
a. 6:00pm
B. Roll Call:
a. Commissioners Erlandson, Richmond, Miceli, Syrris, Rehberg, Forsythe, Einterz present.
Chairman Vassallo present. Councilwoman Powell present. Staff Harris and Wilhelmi present.
C. Citizen's Forum:
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report: •
i. Charges for the yard signs and banners have been processed.
b. Hemmens:
i. The Hemmens has been closed due to Covid. Most staff has been furloughed through
July. Some reopening may occur in phase 4, but most reopening will occur in phase 5.
ii. Plaza redevelopment will be occurring very soon.
c. Art Showcase:
i. The showcase has been closed due to Covid.
ii. Date reservations requests went out today and are due back in July.
iii. There are reports that the other renters in the building are having difficulties with the
management company and their reaction to Covid.
d. Approval of March Minutes:
i. Motion to approve the March minutes by Commissioner Rehberg. Seconded by
Commissioner Erlandson. Approved by a vote of 10-0.
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, August Due 7/20.
ii. Staff Harris to set an article schedule for Bravo and present to the ECAC at the July
meeting.
b. 2020 ECAC Projects:
i. TalentFest
1. Occurred in March at the Hemmens Cultural Center.
ii. Juneteenth
1. The event was cancelled for 2020. Instead,the committee held a car parade of
flags representing all of the African countries.This was held in partnership with
the African American Coalition of Kane County. About 70 cars participated.The
parade went from the east side to the west side of Elgin and back again. It
received lots of positive feedback.
iii. Elgin Fringe Festival
1. The spring mini-fringe was held virtually rather than at Grumpy Goat.The shows
were online for almost a month.This was a good trial to test a virtual fringe for
the fall:.
2. Fall Fringe is planned to go ahead in a virtual way. Details are'still being finalized,
but the event is on schedule to being September 4th. Most shows will have a
small fee. Shows will be online for a full month. Hopefully, pending the
pandemic, there will still be some form of in person events.This is in line with
many other fringes around the world.
3. In the future, a version of a digital fringe will remain to be accessible.
4. The United States Association of Fringe Festivals is being postponed to a year
that we can host it in person here in Elgin.
5. Those artists that were accepted this year are either being given a refund and/or
the first right of refusal.
iv. Elgin Short Film Festival
1. The event will be cancelled this year. Other options were considered, but in
order to retain the feeling and mission of the event as well as the feasibility of
the production, it was decided the best option was to cancel.
2. Those that submitted films are either receiving a refund or first right of refusal.
v. Going Dutch Festival
1. Moved to November of this year, pending the pandemic.
2. Multiple platforms are being explored for the.festival to ensure that the event
will occur.
vi. Shakespeare in the Park
1. A virtual option for a recorded performance can,be offered.This will be a
modern day take on Much Ado About Nothing.
2. Can be released as a watch party if that is desired.
F. Other Old Business:
G. New Business:
a. Covid Response, ECAC Recommendations
i. Grants Recommendations:.
1. Commissioners discussed the use of grants funds for the individuals and
organizations in light of the pandemic.The grants were proportionate of the
organizations and their projects.The commissioners would request those that
have not yet received their funds to submit a short note about their need and
use for the funds.
a. Motion to approve the grants portion of the ECAC Recommendations by
CommissionerEinterz. Seconded by Commissioner.Miceli.Approved by a
vote of 9-0-1 with commissioner Rehberg abstaining.
ii. Public Art Recommendations
1. Commissioners noted that it all makes sense and seems straight forward.
Commissioners noted that the utility boxes also allow for sponsorship.
2. Motion to approve the public art portion of the ECAC Recommendations by
Commissioner Rehberg.Seconded by Commissioner Erlandson. Approved by a
vote of 10-0.
iii. Covid Response Recommendations
1. Commissioners noted to increase the art kit funding to reflect the addition of kits
for adults and resupply of the kids' kits.
2. Motion to approve the Covid response portion of the recommendations with the
addition of$2,500 for art kit funding in the amount of$5,000 based on the ECAC
Recommendations by Commissioner Forsythe. Seconded by Commissioner
Richmond. Approved by a vote of 9-0-1 with commissioner Rehberg abstaining.
3. Motion to approve banners and yard signs as part of the ECAC
Recommendations by Commissioner Erlandson. Seconded by Commissioner
Kearney. Approved by a.vote of 10-0.
b. Grant Recommendations
i. Maintain the Individual Grants as is.
ii. Roll Organizational Grants into operational funds for those that have not yet received
their 2020 funds. One year only:
c: Public Art Recommendations discussed as part of the general recommendations above.
i. Call for Art
1. Suspend this program for 2020.
ii. Utility Box Wrapping
1. Maintain this program for 2020.
iii. Neighborhood Public Art Grants
1. Suspend this program for 2020.
iv. Spontaneous Art Wall
1. Maintain this program for 2020, pending legal review.
v. Asphalt Art Project
1. Suspend this program for 2020.
d. Downtown business board-ups
i. Councilwoman Powell spoke about the committee working to preserve the board-ups
used in downtown.The program would install a mural in downtown, auction a few of
the pieces (funding split between the artist and to establish a.Black Lives Matter
scholarship), and an annual event potentially in conjunction with Juneteenth.This would
be in conjunction with local activist Paige Roeber,the Downtown Neighborhood
Association, and the Human Relations Commission. Staff Harris will come back with
information regarded expected cost.
1. Motion to engage in this co-commission project and potentially fund a portion of
if by Commissioner Miceli.Seconded by Commissioner Powell. Approved by a
vote of 10-0.
e._ Public art and civic design conference
i. Register Commissioner Erlandson for all 3 days and Chairman Vassallo for Wednesday's
session. (Commissioners Syrris and Miceli left during this discussion)
H. Adjournment: 8:27pm
a. Motion to adjourn by Commissioner Rehberg. Seconded by Commissioner Richmond.Approved
by a vote of 8-0(Commissioners Syrris and Miceli had left by this point.)
•
Cultural Arts Commission
MeetingAgenda
Monday, July 13, 2020
6:O0pm
City Hall
Hemmens Cultural Center, Exhibition Hall
A. Call to Order:
B. Roll Call:
C. Citizen's Forum: •
a. Chasity Gunn, Individual Artist Grant Application
b. Cristina Colunga, Individual Artist Grant Application
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
b. Hemmens: •
c. Art Showcase:
d. Approval.of June Minutes:
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, August Due 7/20.
b. 2020 ECAC Projects:
i. Elgin Fringe Festival
ii. Shakespeare in the Park
F. Other Old Business:
G. New Business:
a. Covid Response, ECAC Recommendations
b. Budget review
c. Downtown business board-ups
H. Adjournment:
Cultural Arts Commission
Meeting Minutes
Monday,July 13, 2020
6:00pm
City Hall
Hemmens Cultural Center, Exhibition Hall
A. Call to Order: 6:04pm
B. Roll Call:
a. Commissioners Einterz, Forsythe, Richmond, Erlandson, Kearney,.Syrris, and Miceli present.
Chairman Vassallo present. Councilwoman Powell present. Staff Harris and Wilhelmi present.
C. Citizen's Forum:
a. Chasity Gunn, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. A project titled "Noose."This project is a series of poems inspired by images of lynching.
The poems are recorded at the Gail Borden Library and are paired with curriculum to
explain lynching in both historical and artistic terms. This proposal is to build the
accompanying curriculum.
1. Chairman Vassallo asked about access. Chasity responded that the info will be
posted on her website as well as a forum.There will be aprice, but will be
affordable. He also asked if she had written a curriculum before. Chasity stated
that she had as she is a professor at ECC and has served as a substitute teacher.T
2. Commissioner Einterz asked about further collaboration. Chasity stated that the
collaboration would focus on ensuring that the material is appropriate.
Commissioner Einterz asked when the materials would be available. Chasity said
it should be completed by the end of the year.
3. Councilwoman Powell asked about the age group. Chasity said it would be for
high school students:
4. Commissioner Richmond asked what the ballpark pricing would be for the
program. Chasity stated it would be comparable to a book, with a maximum of
$25.
b. Cristina Colunga, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. A project titled "Ciclo de esperanza" (City of Hope).This project would be a series of five
paintings and would conclude in October of 2020.This would be exhibited at Well Child
Center here in Elgin and will focus on the motherhood experience through the lens of
her Hispanic heritage.The goal was to host an opening reception; but in light of Covid,
the reception will be hosted virtually. One of the paintings will be donated to Well Child
Center at the conclusion of the event.
ii. Chairman Vassallo asked about the Well Child Center. Cristina stated that it is comprised
of a dental and vision center as well as a WIC center. She stated that a lot of their
clientele are Hispanic, and she feels that her work will connect with their audience.
Commissioner,Einterz asked if the connect with Well Child has been confirmed.She.
stated that it was. Commissioner Einterz asked if the work would be for sale. Cristina
stated that she is open to that, but it is not a goal of the project.
iv. Commissioner Forsythe asked if there is a possibility to show the work at another
location such as Gail Borden. She stated that yes, it is.
v. Commissioner Erlandson asked if hospitals show artwork outside of their one-time
events. Cristina stated she was unsure but would happily look into it.
c. Elgin Arts Coalition, Erik Larson (EYSO) and Steve Barton; (EMC),
i. A group of individuals and organizations that live in the world of the arts.They have
been coming together for the last few weeks as an arts support group in light of Covid.
They began by meeting with the Grand Victoria Foundation, but as Covid began,they
have expanded.Their leadership is the group that shows up, nothing formal.Their goals
are to share information and resource,facilitate communication and collaboration, and
advocate on behalf.of the community.They are still forming and defining themselves, so
they spend time asking questions and listening.They"would like to be a resource and be
a more active voice in discussions in planning for the community.;They ask that we
communicate with the group clearly and often.
1. Commissioner Syrris asked about their vision"for.advocacy. Erik responded that
communication and telling the story of the impact of the funding.
'2. When asked about communication, Erik noted that they felt that no one was
checking in on the groups in light of Covid.They saw this as a void that they
could potentially fill, looking beyond Covid.
3. Commissioner Einterz asked how they see the Coalition going forward in a non-
crisis time, what the group would look like in the long term. Steve stated that
while many of the companies collaborate regularly,this coalition would provide
the opportunity to do that more often. Erik noted that they have already created
a database of resources that could be shareable. Commissioner Einterz asked
how a group would participate. Erik noted that they are currently very
informally;they will work to getting a structure, but what that is in unclear so
far. So far,the focus has been on getting the content and messaging clear first.
There may be a membership structure, but that's not definite.
4. Commissioner Forsythe asked if they have a request. Erik responded that they
would like to stay in touch and be,relied on as a resource; but do not have a
specific ask: "
5. Commissioner Erlandson stated that the sooner they have a more formal
structure the better.This would likely invite smaller organizations,and individuals
to participate.
6. Staff. Wilhelmi asked how many of the 75 organizations and individuals that
signed the letter are currently engaged. He also asked how often they are
continuing to meet. Erik responded that most of 75 are not active, but a core '
group of 7-8 are engaged almost weekly.The rest respond when directly
engaged.
7. Councilwoman Powell noted that she was able to speak with a few members of
the coalition after the call. She asked if the GVF was meeting with just their
grantees or a larger group. Erik noted that the meetings were just their grantees,
but they stepped away to allow for the larger conversation. Councilwoman
Powell noted that the ECAC is working to finalize a grant response to Covid. She
stated that she would like to see a sharing.of resources between the artists
'
'
`
that limited
` c,~~rr -- ,---'-` '-,-- -, budgets.
tha a dchaU n�edthennto look toxvoVsto
' noxvnnore neve� n en��u
Commissioner8. EM �mn�e th� h hopes that��a�asdk�meas
possb|�in sof representingaUof Elgin.'She-noted that thistmnbea
. ` llerige,but it'-is imP prtantto make theefforthobe responsive of the
'con1rnU��y�
D. -Staff Report:
a. Financial
i. Staff Harris went through the budget_and eliminated approximately l/3ofthespend|ng.
These cuts include events as well as,prmgroq1s that will be suspended for2O3O.
-
b` Henlnnens:
i. Asmuth-fadng window Was broken during the storms on Thursday.
.
ii. Staff is evaluating-the viab | of offering recording optio'nfdrrenters.
iii Some commission npisskon nnee1' wiU be hosted at the Hernniens.
' .
c. Art Showcase:
i' Date requests
`were due today. Staff will work to put together aschedu|e for 203l.
d. Approvalof June Minutes? _
i. ' oUo I n tmap the June K4i n utes 6«Commissioner Powell. Seconded bx
' Commissioner Erlandson.App 6ved bva vote of
`
E. Old Business'.
' a. marketing
`
7O�
i. CAC Sponsored assignments tmr BRAVO,August Due 7/,-_ .
' l. Individual Artist Grants written bmStaffHarris.
b.- 3020ECA[Progects.
I. Elgin Fringe |: `
l. Fringe isset tobe September 4October4this year,. Mostly virtual with a few live
Options.
2. Buttons and posters eredone andwill be ordered soon, but quantities will be
limited.
ii. Shakespeare in the Park ' _
1 A cust ornizedversionmf"MuchAdoAbou± Nothing."ThLsvyou|dbespedficto
Elgin With opportunities to promote the- The production was filmed
` entirely inquaronUnaand.xvh||e following social distancing.
3' Woukd'beavai|ab|eonthe public access,(if ap Uoab|e) vvebsite.YouTube, etc. es
b appropriate.Th�ternnsvvou|dbesoec�ictmEb�n '
` . approp . _'_ ,-_ , .
` 3. The goal is to' get theproductio`u| this summer. GeneVas version will run July
�nm
through Labor Day Weekend,.
' 4. Councilwoman Povvel|noted �xvou|dbe fun tm host ohonU wat
ch
F. OtherO|d Business:
'
` G. NexxBu�ness: ' �
�
a. Coyd Response, ECACReuomnnlandotmnx � _ '
i Anadd�konof� vv negra � nn
prm�ra to aid m�sno vv�hone
-�nnefundi��inthe
amount of$l,OOOv was added.
. b. Budget review: `
Therevsed �ud �e|inninates�mnnepro�rarnsin |h�htof[ovd Ita|smaddssorneCoVid
-
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response programs. `
ii. Motion tmapproveth. budget_bvConnnn�aonerEMandson.Seconded bv
- Commissioner
K��
ei.Ao| bya vote mf@-O.
' c business 'board-ups.
- - '- ��
� �
i. No update.
d. Chasity Gunn, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. Chairman Vassallo asked about using the funds for the creation of a curriculum and if
that is an appropriate usage of grant funds: Other commissioners noted that it may be
better used as a lesson plan,which would make it more accessible.The language is
limiting and will not be widely accessible, which eliminates much of the potential
audience.
ii. Motion to deny the Individual Artist Grant in the amount of$1,000 by Commissioner
Miceli. Seconded by Commissioner Erlandson. Approved by a vote of 8-0.
e. Cristina Colunga, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. Commissioners noted that they would like to see the prices of the other pieces, which
would help to promote her work. Commissioners noted that it would be helpful to have
some helpful text and explanation with each piece to help educate those who may not
be familiar with the topic.
ii. Motion to approve the Individual Artist Grant in the amount of$1,000 by Commissioner
Richmond. Seconded by Commissioner Einterz. Approved by a vote of 8-0.
H. Adjournment: 8:03pm
a. Motion to adjourn by Commissioner Powell. Seconded by Commissioner Richmond.Approved
by a vote of 7-0 (Commissioner Miceli left at 8:00pm).
so
E N
Liltculturc4Art ‘Commision
Meeting Agenda
Monday, August 10, 2020
6:00pm
City Hall
Hemmens Cultural Center, Exhibition Hall
NOTICE
Due to a lack of quorum, the regularly scheduled meeting of August 10, 2020 has been
cancelled.
The meeting has been rescheduled to August 24, 2020 at 6:00pm at the Hemmens Cultural
Center, Exhibition Hall.
Should you have any questions regarding this posting, please contact staff liaison,Amanda
Harris at harris a@cityofelgin.org.
ilk
Cuttui-at Arts Commission
Meeting Agenda
Monday, August 10, 2020
6:00pm
City Hall
Hemmens Cultural Center, Exhibition Hall
A. Call to Order:
B. Rolf Call:
C. Citizen's Forum:
D. Staff Report: '
a. Financial Report:
b. Hemmens: '
c. Art Showcase:
d. Approval of July Minutes:
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, August Due 8/20.
b. 2020 ECAC Projects:
i. Elgin Fringe Festival
ii. .Shakespeare in the Park-Virtual
F. Other Old Business: .
a: Chasity Gunn, Individual Artist Grant
b. 2020 Organizational Grant.update
c. Covid Response Arts Grant
d: 2021 Organizational Grants '
G. New Business:
a. Event Sponsorship
p p
b. Mural ordinance update
c. Utility Box Wrapping Voting '
d. Public Art Map '
H. Adjournment:
ii
111
ov, .)4
wry
G .
Cultural Arts Commission
fission:
Meeting Agenda IC 13
Monday, August 24, 2020
• 6:00pm
City Hall
Hemmens Cultural Center, Exhibition Hall
A. Call to Order:
a. 6:02pm
B. Roll Call:
a. Commissioners Rehberg, Syrris, Forsythe, Miceli, Einterz, Kearney, Richmond present Chairman
Vassallo present. Staff Harris and Wilhelmi present.
C. Citizen's Forum:
a. No one present.
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report: -
i. Marketing charges will be coming through soon.
b. Hemmens:
I. The Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra did.a program here last week in accordance with
phase 4 guidelines.
ii. Projects continue in the building.
c. Art Showcase:
i. Dates were sent to the renters and confirmations are coming in now.
ii. City Council presentation of lease renewal soon.
d. Approval of July Minutes:
i. Motion to approve the minutes with the addition of Commissioners Syrris and Kearney
to the roll call by Commissioner Miceli. Second by.Commissioner Richmond. Approved
by a vote of 7-0-1 with Commissioner Rehberg abstaining. .
E. Old Business
a. ,Marketing
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, October Due 9/21. Grant opportunities by Staff
Harris.
b. 2020 ECAC Projects:
i. Elgin Fringe Festival
1. The 7th annual festival will start September 4th with 14-15 performances online
for one month.Tickets and passes are on sale online now. Family Fringe will take
place at the Elgin History Museum on September 5th from 11am-1pm. Visual Art
exhibit is at Side Street..Opening Picnic will be on September 18th on Grove
avenue with contests, videos of the performances, and more. Merch, stickers,
posters, and buttons are also available now.
i
ii. Shakespeare,in the Park-Virtual
1. The show went live on the website last week. It will run on public access twice a
week(Thursday and Sunday).,It will be live for a month. It can be viewed at
cityofelgin.org/culturalarts
F. Other Old Business: Councilwoman Powell arrived at 6:15pm.
a. Chasity Gunn, Individual Artist Grant
i. Motion to approve the Individual Artist.Grant in the amount of$1,000 by Councilwoman
Powell. Second by Commissioner Miceli.Approved by a vote of 9-0.
b. 2020 Organizational Grant.update
i. Will be processed pending addendums from the organizations.
c. Covid Response Arts Grant
i. The application set out the expectations and process for obtaining a grant.The next step
in the process is to send the application to legal for review. Once approved, the grant
will be published.
ii. Motion to approve the application with the edits discussed by Commissioner Einterz.
Seconded by Commissioner.Rehberg.Approved by a vote of 9-0.
d. 2021 Organizational Grant application
i. Are live now. •
G. New Business:
a. Event Sponsorship . .
i. Sponsorship of a conversation around "Waking Up White" as part of a 3-part series
moderated by local people around the topic of race relations and diversity. The event is
also sponsored by ECP, CERL, and GBPL. It will be done electronically via zoom (or
similar). . .
b. Mural ordinance update
i. The additional of zoning district CC2 was passed by Planning and Zoning and will go to
City Council next.
c., Utility Box Wrapping Voting
i. Motion to select Kerri Lui for a utility box wrap by Commissioner.Rehberg. Seconded by
Commissioner Forsythe.Approved by a vote of 9-0.
ii. Motion to select Kristi Omeara's "Cravasse" at Larkin and McLean by Councilwoman
Powell. Seconded by Richmond. Approved by a vote of 9-0.
d. Public Art Map
i. A new version is being designed now. .
H. Adjournment: 7:46pm ,
a. Motion to adjourn by Councilwoman Powell. Seconded by Commissioner Miceli.Approved by a
vote of 9-0.
CulturalArtss om fission
Meeting Agenda
Monday, September 14, 2020
6:00pm
City Hall -
Hemmens Cultural Center, Stage
A. Call to Order:
B. Roll Call:
C. Citizen's Forum:
a. Andrew Moore, Individual Artist Grant Application
b. Uriel Brito, Individual Artist Grant Application
c. Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra, Final Report. Kari Christensen presenting
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
b. Hemmens:
c. Art Showcase:
d. Approval of August Minutes:
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, October Due 9/21- Utility Box Wrapping by
Staff Harris
b. 2020 ECAC Projects:
i. Elgin Fringe Festival
ii. Shakespeare in the Park-Virtual
F. Other Old Business:
a. Covid Response Arts Grant
b. Mural ordinance update
c. Utility Box Wrapping update
d. Public Art Map update
G. New Business:
a. Budget 2021
b. One State Conference
c. ArtPlace Virtual.Summit
d. Budget and Commission Packet
H. Adjournment:
y€ 5
Cutturat Arts Commission
Meeting Age_
Monday, September 14, 2020
6:O0pm
City Hall
Hemmens Cultural Center, Stage
A. Call to Order: 6:02pm
B. Roll Call:
a. Commissioners Rehberg, Miceli, Einterz, Erlandson, Richmond, Kearney and Forsythe present.
Chairman Vassallo present. Staff Harris and Wilhelmi present.
C. Citizen's Forum:
a. Andrew Moore, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. Presenting to complete an album called "Dark Skies Tainted Waters," centered on the
idea of profit over people.The songs have been recorded in conjunction with other local
artists and sound engineers.The funds from downloads of the work will be donated to
Earth Guardians, an NFP that focuses on environmental issues. An animated video will
be coming out shortly that will premiere in Iowa.The single is already out, and Moore is
now at 1200 monthly listeners on Spotify. An art contest was put out to create the
album cover. A remix album will come out following the release of this album, which will
allow for other artists to collaborate. A photoshoot and another video will be a part of
the project.
b. Uriel Brito, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. Funding the short film/music video titled "Did you Study." All part of the group titled
"The Mini Projects," a group of siblings based in Elgin.The video follows a character
named Benito and his experiences with relationships and the emotions related to those
relationships. It is a total of 5 scenes and is followed with a music video presented in a
fantasy-like setting.This story showcases a cast that is made of POC identifying
individuals and tells a common human story.The video is one in a series.Two of the
videos have already been filmed and completed.The videos are going to be compiled to
a full short film at about 20 minutes or so.
1. Commissioners asked about premiere.The film should be completed around the
holidays and do an online premiere.Then to do a film festival circuit as most of
those are happening`digitally.This would allow for showing it to a larger
audience. Once the film circuit is completed in the spring/summer of 2021,the
film would be available online.
c. Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra, Final Report. Kari Christensen and Erik Larson presenting
i. A final report on the 2020 project "45rh Season Finale Concert-Folklorico."The concert
was moved online due to Covid..Normally,the season follows the school year and
consists on in person concerts. Overall, attendance/viewership was at 2,585,which is a
much.higher number that normal. It allowed family members who couldn't attend in
person otherwise to view the concert. Altogether,there were almost 400 artists
involved in the project.
1. Commissioners asked about how to watch the concert-eyso.org/concert.
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
i. Charges are coming out for the Utility Boxes and marketing for the events now.
b. Hemmens:
i. Projects continue.
ii. A drive-through Halloween-themed event will happening in October.
c. Art Showcase:
i. The lease renewal will be on the next city council agenda.
d. Approval of August Minutes:
i. Motion to approve the August Minutes by Commissioner Rehberg. Seconded by
Commissioner Einterz. Approved by a vote of 7-0-1 with Commissioner Erlandson
abstaining.
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, October Due 9/21- Utility Box Wrapping by
Staff Harris.
b. 2020 ECAC Projects:
i. Elgin Fringe Festival
1. Kicked off September 4th with a Fringe Picnic followed by the Family Fringe on
September 5th.The picnic was not very well attended, but the visual art opening
and live painting were well attended. Family Fringe was well attended and
practiced social distancing.Passes, merch, and donations all still came in.
2. The performances are all online via Vimeo.There are 15 in all. Numbers on
viewership are continuing to increase.They will be up through October 4th. Most
other events are going to be live-streamed (Meet the Maker). Merch and
buttons are all on sale at Side Street. Streams have occurred through Canada'and
Europe already too.
ii. Shakespeare in the Park-Virtual
1. The show will be up and available through September 21.
F. Other Old Business:
a. Covid Response Arts Grant
i. Applications are in for legal review now.
•
b. Mural ordinance update
i. Murals are now legal in zoning district CC2. •
c. Utility Box Wrapping update:
i. Artist documents were completed, and work should begin soon.
d. Public Art Map update
i. Final public art map will be completed soon.
G. New Business:
a. Andrew Moore, Individual Artist Grant
i. Commissioners noted his growth as an artist and that this work seems thoughtful.They
noted they were impressed that his artist network has continued to grow.
ii. Motion to approve the Individual Artist Grant in the amount of$1,000 by Commissioner
Miceli. Seconded by Commissioner Rehberg. Approved by a vote of 8-0.
b. Uriel Brito, Individual Artist Grant
•
i. Commissioners noted that if approved,the film would not be allowed in the Elgin Short
Film Festival. However, he would be able to enter other projects. Commissioners noted
that they were very impressed with the quality of the shots, cinematography, etc.
ii. Motion to approve the Individual Artist Grant in the amount of$1,000 by Commissioner
Erlandson. Seconded by Commissioner Forsythe. Approved by a vote of 7-0-1 with
Commissioner Rehberg abstaining.
c. Budget 2021
i. Requests from Commissioners to fund projects in 2021 should be brought to the
October meeting.
d. One State Conference
i. This year's conference is online and free to attend.
e. ArtPlace Virtual Summit
i. This year's conference is online and free to attend.
f. Budget and Commission Packet
i. General review of the board and commission packet.
g. Board up art plan:
i. An update on the plan for the art will be presented at the October meeting.
H. Adjournment: 7:22pm
a. Motion to adjourn by Commissioner Rehberg. Seconded by Commissioner Einterz. Approved by
a vote of 8-0.
Cultural ►rts Commission.
Meeting Agenda
Monday, October 12, 2020
6:00pm
Hemmens Cultural Center, Stage
A. Call to Order:
B. Roll Call:
C. Citizen's Forum:
a. Liz Marston, Elgin Area Historical Society, Final Report
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
b. Hemmens:
c. Art Showcase:
d. Approval of September Minutes:
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, November Due 10/21- Individual Artist Grants
by Staff Harris
b. 2020 ECAC Projects:
i. Elgin Fringe Festival
ii. Shakespeare in the Park-Virtual
F. Other Old Business:
a. Covid Response Arts Grant
b. Utility Box Wrapping update
G. New Business:
a. Hamilton Wings, Final Report
b. Shape of Happiness contract
c. 2021 Organizational Grants
d. Budget 2021 proposals
e. New chairman
H. Adjournment:
EL IN
Cultural Arts Commission
Meeting Minutes
Monday, October 12, 2020
6:00pm
• Hemmens Cultural Center, Stage
A. Call to Order: 6:10pm
B. Roll Call:
a. Commissioners Erlandson, Einterz, Kearney, Rehberg, and Syrris present. Chairman Vassallo
present. Staff Harris and Wilhelmi present.
C. Citizen's Forum:
a. Liz Marston, Elgin Area Historical Society, Final Report
i. Presenting a final report on the "Cobblestone Reflections Community Art Project."The
project put out a call for art asking for artists to submit based on what the Cobblestone
House means to them. Several artists submitted.There were prizes awarded to a few of
the artists.The art was auctioned off and proceeds went to help fund the rehabilitation
of the Cobblestone House.The project was well received and brought many from the
community out.The majority of the funds went directly to Elgin artists.Some of the
artwork will be hanging in the Cobblestone house.
b. Mike Rende and Janelle O'Malley present
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
i. Utility box charges have come out and artists have been paid.
ii. Both new individual artist grants have been paid.
b. Hemmens:
i. Projects (internet cables and rewiring, new smoke doors, new light fixtures matching the
new plaza lights) are wrapping up.
ii. Most of the staff will be focused on the Little Park of Horrors coming to Wing Park later
this month.
iii. The new high-speed internet will provide the option for renters to live stream.
c. Art Showcase:
i. New lease extension for 2021 will be on this Wednesday's City Council agenda.
d. Approval of September Minutes:
i. Motion to approve the September minutes by Commissioner Rehberg. Seconded by
Commissioner Erlandson. Approved by a vote of 5-1-0 with Commissioner Syrris
abstaining.
E. Old Business
a. Marketing •
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, November Due 10/21- Individual Artist Grants
by Staff Harris
b. 2020 ECAC Projects:
i. Elgin Fringe Festival
1. The event ran a full month.There were a total of 14 performances, 9 meet the
maker live zoom talks, and a few in person events.There were well over 1,000
views of shows from all over the world.The world-wide viewership wouldn't
have been possible without the performances being virtual.The meet the
makers series were very well received. Artists are going to be able to receive the
full ticket price without the fees being removed. A few awards were given out to
artists, as usual. People continued to buy merch (also around the country) and
donate to the Fringe. Final numbers are still coming in.
2. The EFF Committee will be keeping some version of the virtual component for
future fringes. A winter and spring fringe will also happen to keep year-round
fringe going.
3. Additional grant money was also received this year including that from the
Canadian Association of Fringe Festivals, Palmer Foundation, and Illinois Arts
Council.
ii. Shakespeare in the Park-Virtual
1. The virtual event ran a full month on YouTube as well as public access tv.The
YouTube viewership was at 182, but only a portion lasted to the end.This led the
producer learning that it was available on public access.The goal was to have
100 attend a live event, so having this higher number is good.
2. Most of the engagement came from Facebook marketing.There was also a small
bump from Kane County Connects.
3. All artists participating received a stipend.
iii. Going Dutch
1. The event was supposed to happen in June but was moved to November.There
is a full visual art show in the Gallery of Side Street Studio Arts.The commission
support will still go to the original creative work and arts education work done by
artists.The events will be a mix of in person (done safely outdoors) and virtual
(11 in total) during the month of November.The virtual components will also be
shown at local businesses.This is the 10th anniversary of the festival. Artists from
around the country will be represented, with a majority being local.
F. Other Old Business:
a. Covid Response Arts Grant
i. The applications are under review now.
b. Utility Box Wrapping update
i. Both boxes have been wrapped. Signed are being printed and applied now.
G. New Business:
a. Hamilton Wings, Final Report
i. The project was completed during the winter of 2019 and spring of 2020.
b. Shape of Happiness contract
i. Option to renew the lease for another year.
ii. Motion to renew the lease of"The Shape of Happiness" from the Spontaneous Art Wall
line item by Commissioner Erlandson. Seconded by Commissioner Syrris. Approved by a
vote of 6-0.
c. 2021 Organizational Grants:
i. A total of 8 grants were submitted, 7 of which were complete and accepted.Votes on
these grants will happen at the November meeting.
d. Budget 2021 proposals
•
i. Elgin board-up proposal
a: A collaboration between the Human'Relations Commission, Elgin History
Museum, and Downtown Neighborhood.Association to create and install
a permanent mural at the pocket park in downtown. A few grants will,be
submitted to help fund this project.
2. Elgin Poet Laureate Project:
a. The project began in 2017;they selected a Poet Laureate in 2018-Chasity
Gunn.The managing committee has largely broken. Chasity has noted
that she hasn't felt the program is too successful for her. Her term ended
in September. Commissioner Erlandson met with her and it was decided
that her term would be extended for another year(without pay),to help
mentor the committee.The goal is to expand the project, create and
maintain a website, and focus on Elgin.The first year aPalmer
Foundation grant was awarded along with the ECAC funding of$1,000 for
the two-year term. Commissioner Syrris would join Commissioner
Erlandson in heading this project.The funding request is$5,000 bi-
annually, or$2,500 per year.There is potential that the funding amount
would reduce as the project raises other funds.
3. Continuing to keep Asphalt Art, Shakespeare in the Park, and the.rest of the
existing programs as much as possible.
e. New chairman
i. Chairman Vassallo's last meeting is tonight. We all thank him greatly for his dedicated
service to the arts in Elgin.
ii. Motion to nominate Commissioner Rehberg by Chairman Vassallo. Seconded by
Commissioner Kearney. Approved by a vote of 5-1-0 with Commissioner Rehberg
abstaining.
1. Commissioner Kearney asked if Commissioner Rehberg is interested.
Commissioner Rehberg responded that she is honored,willing, and able.
H. Adjournment: 7:38
a. Motion-to adjourn by Commissioner Rehberg.-Seconded by Commissioner Erlandson.Approved
by a vote of 6-0.
E LG N
Cutturat Arts Commission
Meeting Agenda
Monday, November 9, 2020
6:00pm
Hemmens Cultural Center, Stage
A. Call to Order:
B. Roll Call:
C. Citizen's Forum:
a. Sara Sitzer, Chamber Music on the Fox, Organizational Grant Final Report
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
b. Hemmens:
c. Art Showcase:
d. Approval of October Minutes:
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, November Due 11/19. A year in review-staff
Harris
b. 2020/2021 ECAC Projects:
i. Elgin Fringe Festival
ii. Going Dutch Festival
iii. Board-up Mural project
F. Other Old Business:
a. Covid Response Arts Grant
G. New Business:
a. Independent Players, Final Report
b. 2021 Organizational Grants Scoring
H. Adjournment:
1111
bt
Cultural Arts Commission
Meeting Agenda
Monday, November 9, 2020
6:OOpm
Hemmens Cultural Center, Stage
A. Call to Order: 6:00pm
B. Roll Call:
a. Commissioners Einterz, Forsythe, Richmond, Kearney, Miceli, and Syrris present. Chairwoman
Rehberg present. Councilwoman Powell present. Staff Wilhelmi present. Staff Harris remotely
present.
C. Citizen's Forum:
a. Sara Sitzer, Chamber Music on the Fox, Organizational Grant Final Report
i. Presenting on their 2020 Organizational Grant project, "Corky Siegel's Chamber Blues"
which took place in October. Originally planned for May, the concert was moved to a
virtual concert for October due to Covid. Moving the concert to virtually allowed for
more artists to participate (from 4 to 11), from all over the world. The concert was much
more accessible to a larger audience. The standard ticketing model was replaced with a
donation system. Attendees were asked to donate rather than purchasing a static ticket.
The donations varied in scale and were more than anticipated. A second grant through
the Illinois Arts Council was secured to produce this concert as well.
b. Katrina Syrris, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. Grant request for a project titled, "Ghastly Creatures Episodes#2, 3, and 4."This
program is an original mystery/comedy series by Katrina Syrris. It is rehearsed and
performed virtually. This series began as part of another project and is being continued
due to the great response. These are short episodes that average at 30 minutes.
Episodes are put online. There are no ticket charges, but rather attendees are asked to
donate as they are able. The majority of the grant funds will go to pay for the
performers. Local businesses will be offered the opportunity to advertise on the virtual
platforms free of charge. Hopefully two of the three will go out before the end of the
year. Performers are already confirmed.
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
i. Going Dutch charges are coming out now with the funds going directly to the artists.
ii. Marketing charges from Fringe continue to come in.
iii. Motion to approve allocating$2,500 from the Spontaneous Art wall to the Board-up
Mural project and allocating$2,500 from the Spontaneous Art Wall to the lease
extension of"the shape of happiness" by Commissioner Richmond. Seconded by
Commissioner Miceli. Approved by a vote of 8-0.
iv. Motion to use any remaining funds in the Individual Grant line item for the Arts NFP
Grants before the funds in the Arts NFP Grants line item are used by Commissioner
Einterz. Seconded by Councilwoman Powell. Approved by a vote of 8-0.
b. Hemmens:
i. The smoke door replacement should be completed this week.
ii. Internet installation is continuing
Broken window in the lobby was replaced today.
iv. Staff is going through all of the equipment for the Little Park of Horrors. Staff is looking
at doing some sort of light show at Festival Park using that equipment. Little Park of
Horrors was very well received.
v. Working with EYSO on a project to help support the area human services NFPs.
vi. Groups are looking at virtual options for early 2021.
c. Art Showcase:
i. The lease extension was approved for 2021.
d. Approval of October Minutes:
i. Motion to approve the October Minutes by Commissioner Einterz. Seconded by
Commissioner Kearney. Approved by a vote of 4-4 with Commissioners Powell,
Forsythe, Miceli, Richmond.
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
i. CAC Sponsored assignments for BRAVO, November Due 11/19. A year in review/Looking
forward to 2021-staff Harris
b. 2020/2021 ECAC Projects:
i. Elgin Fringe Festival
1. The Elgin Fringe Festival final budget will be sent out soon. About $4,500 was
secured in grant funding for this year.This is expected to grow. Sponsorships and
individual donations were low but still came in. Over$2,000 came into the box
office, all of which will be sent directly to the artists without fees removed and
an additional $50 tip included. Most of the money this year was spent paying
artists directly. Elgin Theatre Company won audience favorite this year. Virtual
performances will remain a part of the festival moving forward. Winter and
Spring fringes will occur in January and the spring.
ii. Going Dutch Festival
1. The festival kicked off last Friday. Workshops begin this week, most of which are
virtual. Videos will be online for free this week. Videos are also on display at Side
Street, Funky Rooster, Elgin Knit Works, and Cook's Sweet Boutique.
iii. Board-up Mural project
1. A$15,000 Chicago Community Foundation grant was applied for in October. We
were just notified that we were awarded $10,000.
2. Staff Harris will be presenting to the Elgin History Museum board on November
17th to provide them an update, as requested.
3. Improvements to the existing boards and professional images both need to
occur.
F. Other Old Business:
a. Covid Response Arts Grant
i. The application has been approved and will be released tomorrow.
ii. These grants will be evaluated by staff and a subcommittee consisting of Commissioners
Miceli and Rehberg for viability and approved/denied. A report will be provided to the
whole commission at the following meeting.
iii. Timeline-Applications go live Nov 10th. Due 30th. Approved/denied 12/4. Final report to
ECAC on 12/14.
G. New Business:
a. Independent Players, Final Report
b. Katrina Syrris, Individual Artist Grant Application
i. Motion to approve the Individual Artist Grant in the amount of$1,000 by Commissioner
Forsythe. Seconded by Commissioner Kearney. Approved by a vote of 7-0-1 with
Commissioner Syrris abstaining.
c. Elgin Holiday Card
i. A group of Elgin-based arts organizations are partnering with Elgin-based human service
NFPs.The arts groups will produce 1-2 holiday/seasonal songs and video them at
famous Elgin sites.These videos will be combined to one video 30-40 minutes long and
will be released by all of the organizations. The video will be used to raise funds for the
human service NFPs.
ii. Staff is recommending that the ECAC sponsor this effort both in name and with funding.
The funding will be allocated directly to the artists involved and to help cover the video
production costs. Motion to allocate $2,000 from the general fund line-item for Arts NFP
grants and $1,500 from the Utility Box Wrapping line item by Councilwoman Powell.
Seconded by Commissioner Miceli. Approved by a vote of 7-0-1 with Chairwoman
Rehberg abstaining.
iii. Commissioners noted that they like the idea and the supportive nature of it.
d. Remote meetings
i. Will be an option for December and moving forward as is necessary.
e. 2021 Organizational Grants Scoring
i. Commissioners noted that they would like to see more diversity in medium amongst the
Organizational Grant Applications.
ii. Chamber Music on the Fox
1. Commissioners noted that they were happy to see different partners.
Chairwoman Rehberg noted that she is no longer on their board of directors.
iii. Children's Theatre of Elgin
1. Commissioners noted that they are including some technical classes for the kids.
Commissioners noted that their budget relies on $10,000 in ticket sales, which
may be high with Covid still around. Commissioners noted that scholarships are
not noted in the budget. Commissioners noted that their ticket sales income for
projected for 2021 is $75,000. Commissioners noted a small concern about this
group being able to adapt during Covid. Commissioners noted that their shows
are always very good and well done.
iv. Elgin Theatre Company
1. Commissioners noted that the bulk of the budget is for the costuming.
Commissioners noted that there is no back up plan for the program if Covid
doesn't let up, nor are there dates for the show, which leads them to believe
that the plan is to wait out the pandemic. Commissioners noted that they didn't
note doing anything during the pandemic to reach their audiences, but rather
just shut down to wait it out, which isn't wrong either. Commissioners noted
that they like the talk balks after the shows.
v. Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra:
1. Commissioners noted that they seem prepared to adjust their programming due
to Covid.
vi. Hamilton Wings:
1. Commissioners noted that the program seems adaptive and inspiring.
vii. Independent Players
1. Commissioners noted enjoying their past performances.
viii. Side Street Studio Arts
1. Commissioners noted that they are excited about this project.
H. Adjournment: 7:59
a. Motion to adjourn by Commissioner Miceli. Seconded by Commissioner Richmond. Approved
by a vote of 8-0.
E N
Cultural Arts: omrni sio
Meeting Agenda
Monday, December 14, 2020
6:00pm
Online Zoom Room
A. Call to Order:
B. Roll Call:
C. Citizen's Forum:
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
b. Hemmens: -
c. Art Showcase:
d. Approval of November Minutes:
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
b. 2020/2021 ECAC Projects:
i. Board-up Mural project
F. Other Old Business:
a. Covid Response Arts Grant
b. 2021 Organizational Grant Final Scores
G. New Business:
H. Adjournment:
a
cultural Arts Dram
Meeting Agenda v��4
Monday, December 14, 2020
6:00pm
Online Zoom Room
A. Call to Order: 6:03pm
B. Roll Call:
a. Chairwoman Rehberg present, Commissioners Kearney,Syrris, Einterz, Erlandson, Forsythe,
Miceli, and Richmond present. Staff Harris and Wilhelmi present. Councilwoman Powell
present.
C. Citizen's Forum:
D. Staff Report:
a. Financial Report:
i. Final Going Dutch charges are coming through now.
ii. Board up supplies are coming in now.
b. Hemmens:
i. A few things that were lined up are now cancelled due to the new mitigations. Several
projects are being completed now.
ii. Little Park of Horrors and Festival of Lights are completed.
iii. Plaza project is largely finished with just the landscaping left to complete next year. •
c. Art Showcase:
i. No updates
d. Approval of November Minutes:
i. Motion to approve the.November Minutes by Commissioner Miceli. Seconded by
Commissioner Einterz.Approved by a vote of 9-0-1 with Commissioner Erlandson
abstaining.
E. Old Business
a. Marketing
i. Need to decide how to cover the gap that BRAVO is leaving.
ii. Most marketing in 2021 will be virtual.
iii. Kevin and Libby expressed interest in joining the sub-committee. A decision will be
made at the next meeting.The committee currently contains Chairwoman Rehberg and
Commissioner Syrris.
b. 2020/2021 ECAC Projects:
i. Board-up Mural project
1. Now titled "Making Space
2. IDPH grant of$10,000 was awarded.
3. Elevating Equity Grant was applied for.
4. THINK grant will be applied for next.
ii. Elgin Poet Laureate Project:
1. Commissioner Erlandson spoke on this project.She noted a desire to grow to
include a Junior Poet Laureate in the future.
2. It will include more structure on the project committee.
3. Funding request is$5,000 allowing for$2,500 per year.
4. Activities will begin in the summer of 2021 to put out a call for a new Elgin Poet
Laureate, which will allow time for the website to be created.
5. Chairman Rehberg noted that there are some grants available and if the project
committee hadthe capacity to apply for those, she would send them along.
iii. Elgin Fringe Festival
1. The call for the Winter Fringe is currently out.There is no production fee. All
ticket sales will be split between the festival and the artist. •
2. Artists can also work with the festival to have their work recorded if needed.
3. A few Artists have not cashed their checks, so the final 2020 fringe budget will be
provided at the next meeting.
F. Other Old Business:
a. Covid Response Arts Grant:
i. One application was received and approved.The applicant was Elgin Theatre Company.
b. 2021 Organizational Grant Final Scores
i. Commissioners noted that previous years have awarded grants to those scoring
between 10-12.
ii. Commissioners noted that they support those that submitted and are working to stay
alive and active in light of Covid.
iii. Motion to approve all of the Organizational Grant Applications at 90%grant amount by
Commissioner Miceli. Seconded by Commissioner Erlandson.Approved by a vote of 9-0-
1 with Chairwoman Rehberg abstaining.
c. 2021 Budget Proposal
i. Commissioner Erlandson noted that she'd like to seethe Elgin Poet Laureate Project
funded for one year for now. Other commissioners agreed.
ii. Commissioners noted that they like the flexibility of the budget.
iii. Motion to approve the budget by Commissioner Einterz. Seconded by Commissioner
Richmond.Approved by a vote of 9-0.
G. New Business:
a. Public Art in 2021:
i. The prevailing idea is to paint storm drains in 2021 rather than 2 large pieces of new art.
b. External Fundraising:
i. How to fund keeping some public art pieces is a question to begin pondering.
H. Adjournment:
a. Motion to adjourn by Commissioner Erlandson. Seconded by Commissioner Powell.Approved
by a vote of 9-0.