In a recent meeting of the City of Clearwater Public Art & Design Board, members engaged in a thoughtful discussion about the intersection of art, safety, and community engagement. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of responsibility as board members reflected on their past decisions regarding public art installations, particularly in playground areas.

One board member expressed regret over previous choices, acknowledging the need for a balance between aesthetic appeal and safety. "We pushed back on metal and size," they noted, emphasizing the importance of creating art that is not only beautiful but also safe for children. Drawing from personal experience, the member shared a poignant anecdote about their child’s adventurous spirit, highlighting the necessity of considering how children interact with public art. This led to a consensus on the idea of "playable art"—installations designed to be interacted with, such as musical instruments or climbing structures, rather than merely decorative pieces.

The conversation then shifted to ongoing projects, including contributions to the Imagine Clearwater initiative. Board members expressed a desire for more transparency and updates on various projects, particularly the public art associated with the new police station. Concerns were raised about a recent decision to use a blue stripe on the terrazzo floor as public art, which some members felt lacked community input and oversight. "It seems like it might have fallen through the cracks," one member remarked, underscoring the importance of collaborative decision-making in public art projects.

As the meeting concluded, the board members left with a renewed commitment to ensuring that future art installations not only enhance the beauty of Clearwater but also foster safe and engaging environments for all residents. The discussions highlighted a growing awareness of the role public art plays in community identity and the need for ongoing dialogue to navigate the complexities of artistic expression in public spaces.