Glendale library previews spring exhibits and public‑art RFQ; staff say 406 applications received

Glendale Library and Culture staff on April 16 gave commissioners a roundup of upcoming exhibits, events and the citywide public‑art request for qualifications.

Staff listed several library events and exhibits: an author talk with Peter Balakian on April 30 at Glendale Central Library; a request for poet laureate proposals (deadline April 17 at 5 p.m., $8,000 one‑year compensation); 'Underwater Bottleneck' by Elizabeth Chris and Sari Sheer at the Adams Square Mini Park historic gas station (on view through June 26) with an artist reception April 18 at 2 p.m.; 'Dreams Gather Here,' a solo exhibition by Rachel Hakimian Emanaca at Reflex Space through April 26 with an artist walk‑through on April 21 at 6:30 p.m.; and an online conversation with author Jason Reynolds on April 30 at 4 p.m.

On the public‑art front, staff said the citywide RFQ received 406 applications, "about double what we received in previous years," and that staff has met with LaBasse Projects to shortlist artists. Staff said a committee meeting to review shortlisted artists is tentatively scheduled for May 4 and will include Chairperson Zadorian and Commissioner Vidor.

The meeting also included a short description of the Underwater Bottleneck installation’s concept and environmental theme. One presenter noted, "There is an estimated 11,000,000 metric tons of plastic that enter our waterways every year," as context for the installation’s message.

Staff asked commissioners to share availability for upcoming panel meetings and said further updates will follow once selection dates are confirmed.