At its Jan. 13 meeting, the Urbana Arts and Culture Commission heard multiple public-art updates from staff, including a replacement sculpture for the Boneyard, an open call for a parking-deck mural, and upcoming exhibits and events downtown.

Staff said the mosaic sculpture 'Heal Us' by Nicole Beck has been selected to replace the weathered 'Ice Pops' piece at Boneyard Creek; staff described the work as roughly 6 feet high by 3 feet wide by 3 feet deep, approximately 400 pounds, constructed of steel and painted fiberglass with a mosaic surface. Staff also noted communications with the out-of-state original artist had proven difficult, prompting the replacement decision.

The commission was reminded that the parking-deck mural portfolio call remains open, with a deadline confirmed by a commissioner as Feb. 9; the selected artist will receive $50,000 to cover design and installation costs. Staff said initial review of submissions will be conducted with 40 North and staff, and finalists will be brought to the commission for an anonymous jury selection.

Other items: Millie Vishkawa is installing a wildlife photography exhibit at the Urbana Free Library and City Hall; staff previewed Postmark activities scheduled for Feb. 14 (Lunar New Year/poetry month) with the Asian American Cultural Center participating; a winter 'make-and-take' program at Lincoln Square Mall continues in partnership with the Idea Store.

Timing and next steps: staff said the Boneyard Creek crossing public-art program and maintenance discussion would likely require a study session or special meeting because of the scope of related studies; commissioners voted to move that discussion to the February meeting.