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City staff selects artist team for downtown public-art plan, project funded by Port of Seattle grant
Summary
City staff reported that an artist team led by Elizabeth Gann with Uncommon Bridges won the RFQ to develop a downtown public art plan and pilot installation backed by a Port of Seattle grant; staff expect to finalize the contract and seek council approval.
Bothell — Staff reported that, following a request for proposals, a team combining artist Elizabeth Gann and the consultancy Uncommon Bridges was selected to develop a downtown public art plan and a pilot implementation project funded in part by a Port of Seattle grant.
Speaker 2 said five artist teams applied and that the chosen team’s expertise pairs a practicing public artist with a public-art consultant experienced in placemaking and community consensus building. The plan will emphasize temporary and semi-permanent pieces — typically three to five years in lifespan — and aim to pair artists with downtown businesses to create installable themes that encourage pedestrian activity and local spending.
"The artist is Elizabeth Gann," Speaker 2 said, describing the winning proposal and noting Uncommon Bridges’ role as a consultant. Staff said finalizing the contract will require city council approval depending on the contract threshold and that the project could begin early next year if approvals proceed.
The committee discussed the pilot’s emphasis on temporary works so businesses could test and afford activations, and raised options for sustaining pieces over time through private contributions, culture grants or community fundraising. Staff said the chamber of commerce will help recruit business participants and that a roster of temporary-art specialists will be developed to support affordable installations.
