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Salem selection committee names Michael Bonistra to create Civic Center elevator artwork
Summary
After reviewing eight finalists, the Salem Public Art Commission selected Michael Bonistra, an Oregon State faculty artist, to produce corten‑steel elevator wall works inspired by a prominent downtown oak; the commission said the work should be completed before the Civic Center move‑in.
The Salem Public Art Commission selected Michael Bonistra as the finalist for the Civic Center call to artists after two days of finalist presentations, commissioners said.
Susan Nap, chair of the commission, described Bonistra as "an experienced public artist" and said his proposal — a series of drawings translated into water‑cut corten steel panels with graduated perforations — references a large, diseased downtown oak that inspired the design. Commissioners said the proposal focuses on historic context and avoids placing elements at floor level to reduce safety and maintenance concerns.
Commissioners described the selection process as competitive: eight finalists presented both virtually and in person, the panel scored independently and narrowed proposals through a short list before the final choice. Nap said Bonistra has previously completed public commissions, including work at Oregon State and the Marine Science Center in Newport, and that the commission expects the work to be installed before the city moves back into the Civic Center.
Staff said the selected artist will prepare a series of preparatory drawings and that the city will finalize a contract and notice to proceed. Commissioners discussed outreach and community engagement around the piece and suggested displaying preparatory drawings in the library art wall during the project.
Next steps: staff will notify the artist, prepare contract documents and schedule a presentation for an upcoming SPACK meeting.
