Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Art Project 975 Page Mill topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Palo Alto panel approves concept for generative artwork 'Loam' at 975 Page Mill Road
Summary
The Palo Alto Public Art Commission approved a concept for 'Loam,' a screen-based generative animation by artist Daniel Conagher, to be sited in the lobby of the Link at 975 Page Mill Road. The commission approved the concept unanimously; ongoing maintenance will be the property owner’s responsibility, not the art budget.
The Palo Alto Public Art Commission on Nov. 20 approved the concept for a generative digital artwork titled Loam to be installed in the lobby of the Link, a remodeled building at 975 Page Mill Road meant to serve early-stage entrepreneurs.
Jamie Jarvis, programs director for Stanford Research Park, presented the Link project and introduced the project team and artist. Artist Daniel Conagher, presenting from his Los Angeles studio, described Loam as "a screen-based generative animation" that will use custom-coded software and an AI program to analyze Stanford research publications and update the animation to reflect current research themes.
"The artwork will be using an AI program that will analyze the articles that appear in the publications," Conagher said, explaining that identified themes such as bioengineering, robotics and chemistry will each have distinct animation styles and color palettes.
Commissioners questioned longevity, maintenance and safety. Conagher said software updates and remote maintenance are part of his practice, estimated that a screen might have "20, 30 years" of useful life for brightness and suggested creating a foundation to ensure long-term upkeep. Jamies Jarvis clarified budgeting: the art cost will be covered by the project art budget while ongoing maintenance will sit with the building's operations and the property owner per city ordinance.
Commissioners also pressed how the AI input and transitions would run; Conagher said the piece would typically operate during building hours and that transition timing could be programmed to feel organic (roughly a 10–20 minute range per theme). He said the studio tests transitions to avoid strobing or photosensitive effects and provides documentation and manuals to building staff.
A commissioner moved to approve the public-art concept; after a roll-call vote the commission voted yes and the motion passed. Staff noted the Link building is scheduled to open in 2027, and that final technical, signage and operations details will be developed by the project team as the design progresses.
The approval covers the concept only; the project team will return with final designs and technical specifications for subsequent review and permitting.
