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Commission pulls approval of $800,000 "Petals of the Moon" public art after questions over siting and public input
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Summary
The commission asked staff to withdraw for further discussion a proposed $800,000 public art installation 'Petals of the Moon' by Cinta Tantra at 8111 South Dixie. Commissioners raised questions about prominence, public input and developer partnership; staff agreed to meet individually with commissioners before returning.
Commissioners on Monday asked staff to withdraw a proposed public art installation at 8111 South Dixie and return after further conversations with the commission. The artwork, "Petals of the Moon" by artist Cinta Tantra, was presented as a public‑private partnership with Woodfield Flagler Venture LLC and an all‑in budget of $800,000.
Sabila Cuntel, director of arts, culture and community building, said the artist was selected through a competitive process and described two sculptural elements — one gold leafed and one deep blue — installed on a 5‑foot plinth with a tallest element of about 17 feet. "The public art committee voted unanimously for Cinta Tantra's Petals of the Moon," Cuntel said, outlining materials, fabrication and maintenance responsibilities: long‑term maintenance of the artwork is to be handled by the city's public art program while surrounding landscaping and maintenance would fall to the developer.
Commissioners asked for more detail about public input, prominence and whether the piece would feel welcoming or 'say Welcome to West Palm Beach.' Commissioner Ward asked whether the project would allow children to interact with the piece; Cuntel said the design intentionally relies on a raised plinth and is not intended for climbing. Commissioners also questioned the visual impact from multiple approaches and whether landscaping and palm trees shown in a rendering would remain.
Given the level of commissioner concern, Mayor suggested pulling the item so staff could hold one‑on‑one discussions. Cuntel agreed: "I will respectfully pull this, and I will... meet with everyone." The item was formally pulled from the agenda for further refinement.
What happened next: Staff will meet individually with commissioners and can return a revised proposal addressing siting, landscape, maintenance provisions and additional renderings or alternatives. The public art committee will continue to be involved in the review.
