City Council approves $2,300 for Barone sculpture exhibit at Town Square Park

The Cathedral City Council convened on February 12, 2025, to discuss various agenda items, with a significant focus on the proposed public art exhibition featuring the works of renowned artists Karen and Tony Barone.

The meeting began with Christina Burton, the Public Arts Commission Clerk, presenting the commission's funding request for the exhibition titled "Catalyst of the Future." This exhibition is set to take place in Town Square Park from March 14 to April 27, 2025, coinciding with the Desert X Coachella Valley exhibition. Although Cathedral City will not host a Desert X installation, the Barone exhibit aims to attract art enthusiasts to the area.

Burton detailed the exhibition plans, which include 14 large-scale pop art sculptures, such as a six-foot tall golden cat and a ten-foot tall pair of dancing pajama party rabbits. The sculptures will be strategically placed around City Hall and the park, ensuring they do not obstruct foot traffic and do not require securing to the concrete.

The total cost for the exhibition is proposed at $2,300, which covers transportation of the sculptures, signage, and a reception. This funding would be sourced from the Public Arts Commission's general fund budget. The commission unanimously supported the proposal during their January 14 meeting, aligning with the city’s strategic plan to promote community events.

The council is expected to vote on the funding allocation in the coming weeks, with the aim of enhancing the city’s cultural landscape and community engagement through this artistic initiative.