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Public artworks in Fort Myers show corrosion and damage; committee to seek conservator proposals and consider deaccessioning
Summary
A January condition assessment showed corrosion and structural concerns on multiple public sculptures, prompting the committee to seek conservator proposals, consider repair versus removal (including deaccessioning), and prepare an RFP compliant with City procurement. Specific repair estimates (e.g., Knoll Painting) and a lowest bid of $45,812.94 for Trailhead infrastructure were presented.
The Public Art Committee reviewed a January condition assessment and several pending capital and conservation projects on March 17.
Public Art Consultant Tom Hall summarized the conservator’s findings, saying he consulted with Rosa Lowinger and Associates, which advised that "once corrosion begins, full restoration is not feasible." Hall identified approximately a dozen works for further review and said several Carmona statues are undergoing irreversible corrosion. The Director of the Alliance for the Arts has expressed a preference for removal of some pieces, but the City currently lacks storage space if works are removed.
Hall also reported that the Uncommon Friends Fountain requires repair and that the Thomas Edison sculpture — previously repaired for a crack in the leg — needs additional attention. The Manatee sculpture has ongoing damage from public interaction; Hall presented two main options: reconstruct the manatee as a solid sculpture to increase durability or remove it. He will include removal cost estimates and repair options in proposals to be obtained from conservators.
The Fire Dance sculpture has been significantly defaced, including graffiti etched into its surface. Knoll Painting is preparing an estimate and has identified a potentially more cost-effective alternative coating; that estimate is expected before the next PAC meeting.
On infrastructure projects, Parks and Recreation presented the Trailhead Project layout and two proposals for hurricane-resistant block and stucco walls to support panels; Kelly Contracting was identified as the lowest bidder and the total project cost reported was $45,812.94. Committee members asked staff to consider less expensive temporary metal panel options, and Mr. Luna suggested an RFI could be issued if a clear scope is developed. Mr. Hall said he would obtain multiple conservator proposals and Mr. Luna recommended proceeding with a formal RFP consistent with City procurement policy.
Next steps include Parks and Recreation and the consultant meeting to develop a scope of work for all items needing attention, issuing an RFP for conservators and repair contractors, receiving estimates (including Knoll Painting for repaint), and returning to PAC with cost comparisons and recommendations about repair, removal, or deaccessioning.
