Commission selects artists for painted-piano program; artists to be paid $2,000

The Nevada City Public Arts Commission reviewed proposals on May 7 for a painted-pianos program intended to place three working pianos around downtown during the summer and art-walk events.

Staff told commissioners there are three pianos available for award. The commission reviewed four submissions and discussed one interactive community-painting proposal and how to site pianos on relatively flat, wheelable locations for setup. Commissioners raised concerns about materials and durability for outdoor placement and whether artists should use exterior-grade paints given summer weather and the need for future repainting.

When asked whether artists would be paid, staff responded that each paid slot carries $2,000. Commissioners discussed outreach to local music groups and performing organizations to encourage use of the pianos during the art walk.

Commissioners reached a consensus to select two artists (referred to in discussion as "one and three") for two of the paid pianos and to proceed with logistics for the June art walk with a target in early June for placement. Staff will notify artists, schedule pick-up and delivery, and confirm specific installation sites.

The program is intended to be iterative — pianos will be returned at season end and the program may continue the next year, potentially with additional recruitment for more instruments. No formal roll-call vote was recorded on the artist selections; staff reported consensus and will follow up.