Special Cultural Arts Commission

Special Cultural Arts Commission Agenda Wednesday, July 15, 2026, 5:30 PM COUNCIL CHAMBERS 1 Civic Center Circle Brea, California 92821 Erika Bernal, Chair Ben Schultz, Vice Chair Robyn Price, Commissioner Linda Shay, Commissioner Michael Tinio, Commissioner This agenda contains a brief general description of each item the Commission will consider. The Community Services Department has on file copies of written documentation relating to each item of business on this Agenda available for public inspection. Contact the Community Services Department at (714) 990-7738 or view the Agenda and related materials on the City's website at www.cityofbrea.gov Materials related to an item on this agenda submitted to the Commission after distribution of the agenda packet are available for public inspection in the Community Services Department at 1 Civic Center Circle, Brea, CA during normal business hours. Such documents may also be available on the City's website subject to staff's ability to post documents before the meeting. Procedures for Addressing the Commission The Commission encourages interested people to address this legislative body by making a brief presentation under Matters from the Audience. State Law prohibits the Commission from responding to or acting upon matters not listed on this agenda. The Commission encourages free expression of all points of view. To allow all persons the opportunity to speak, please keep your remarks brief If others have already expressed your position, you may simply indicate that you agree with a previous speaker. If appropriate, a spokesperson may present the views of your entire group. Commission rules prohibit clapping, booing or shouts of approval or disagreement from the audience. Please silence all cell phones and other electronic equipment while the Commission is in session. Thank you. Written comments may be submitted in advance of the meeting by emailing carrieho@cityofbrea.gov Written comments received by 3 pm on the day of the meeting will be provided to the Commission, will be made available to the public at the meeting, and will be included in the official record of the meeting. Special Accommodations In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the Community Services Department at (714) 990-7738. Notification 48 hours prior to the meeting will enable City staff to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility. (28CFR 35.102.35.104 ADA Title II) 1. General Session 1.A. Call to Order 1.B. Pledge of Allegiance 1.C. Invocation 1.D. Matters from the Audience 2. Action 2.A. Approval of Minutes 3. Discussion 3.A. Department Fiscal Year-End Overview 3.B. Cultural Arts Recognition Update 4. Reports 4.A. Gallery Committee 4.B. Theatre Committee 4.C. Site Awareness Committee 4.D. Art in Public Places Committee 4.E. Country Fair Committee 5. Informational 5.A. B. Information Memorandum/Staff Updates 5.B. Commissioner Requests 6. Adjournment Date Posted: July 8, 2026  CITY of BREA Special Cultural Arts Commission Communication July 15, 2026 Item No. 2A. Approval of Minutes TO PREPARED BY Chair and Members of the Cultural Arts Commission Sean L. Matlock, Interim Community Services Director DEPARTMENT HEAD APPROVAL CITY MANAGER APPROVAL Sean L. Matlock, Interim Community Services Director Kristin Griffith, City Manager RECOMMENDATION Approve. Attachments 05-13-26 Draft CAC Minutes.pdf  ** The following document is a draft of the minutes and the not the official approved minutes ** Minutes for the Cultural Arts Commission 1 Civic Center Circle Brea, California 92821 May 13, 2026 Roll Call: (The following members were in attendance) Erika Bernal, Chair - Cultural Arts Commission Ben Schultz, Vice Chair - Cultural Arts Commission Linda Shay - Cultural Arts Commissioner Michael Tinio - Cultural Arts Commissioner Absent: Robyn Price - Cultural Arts Commissioner 1. General Session 1.A. Call to Order Chair Bernal called the meeting to order at 5:30 pm. 1.B. Pledge of Allegiance Chair Bernal led the Pledge of Allegiance. 1.C. Invocation Chair Bernal asked for a moment of silence. 1.D. Matters from the Audience None. 2. Action 2.A. Approval of Minutes Commissioner Shay made a motion to approve the minutes, seconded by Vice Chair Schultz.  Motion passed 4-0-1 Ayes; Bernal, Schultz, Shay, Tinio Nays: None Absent: Price 3. Discussion 3.A. Mid-Year Commission Goals Update Community Services Manager Jenn Colacion provided an update on the mid-year goals adopted by the Commission in October 2025. The Art in Public Places Program is working on a comprehensive update to its policy manual, with completion anticipated by the end of the year. The Curtis Theatre is reviewing ticket pricing for select shows as part of efforts to generate additional revenue. The Gallery has plans to strategically test extended hours in conjunction with special events. Staff is also exploring special events with an emphasis on leveraging existing programming and alternative locations. 3.B. Cultural Arts Recognition Program Discussion Community Services Manager Jenn Colacion introduced the Cultural Arts Recognition Program, which was successfully implemented last year. The Commission discussed potential improvements for the next nomination period, including extending the nomination time-frame and enhancing promotional efforts for the program. 4. Reports 4.A. Gallery Committee No updates. 4.B. Theatre Committee Community Services Specialist Elliot Forrester reported several updates regarding the upcoming Theatre season. He announced the selection of artists for the Latin Jazz series, including the return of Gabriela Martinez and La Verdad, who previously performed following the Theatre’s pandemic reopening in 2021. Final scripts were also selected for the Page to Stage Playwrights Festival, and staff are currently pairing directors with productions. Forrester stated that the Larking House Theatre Group will present The Crucible in October after rights were denied for their originally proposed production of Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. Additionally, the Community Advisory Board and Theatre staff selected two “Amplify” productions for the season: Criers for Hire by Giovanni Ortega, a coming-of-age immigrant story, and A  Hollywood Horror Story by Ingrid Garner, a production exploring one of television’s first horror television hosts. He also announced A Lesson in Swimming by Michael Shutt, an autobiographical and inspirational piece about Shutt’s experiences as a three-time stroke survivor. He further reported that the OC of OC repertoire had been finalized. Upcoming performances include the Summer Serenade chamber music event in June, the fall concert Getting Personal, featuring works inspired by personal moments and emotions, and the spring concert American Stories, themed around perspectives on America in recognition of America 250. 4.C. Site Awareness Committee Community Services Manager Jenn Colacion apologized to the Commission for the lack of an update this meeting due to competing priorities and Public Works’ role in upcoming implementation. She noted she will reconvene the subcommittee in the coming weeks for further discussion. 4.D. Art in Public Places Committee No updates. 4.E. Country Fair Committee Commissioner Shay reported that a recent walk through went well and preparations are progressing. Sponsorships are still being secured, but are ahead of last year at this stage. 5. Informational 5.A. B. Information Memorandum/Staff Updates Gallery Director Katie Chidester provided updates on Gallery and Art in Public Places initiatives. She reported a successful opening reception for Made in California, recent media coverage, and ongoing efforts to expand accessibility and partnerships through programs such as Museums for All and Hyper SoCal. Regarding the Art in Public Places Program, staff reported that volunteers inspected 14 public art pieces during Go. Serve. Brea., helping identify maintenance priorities and engagement opportunities. Staff also noted that a replacement sculpture for a previously stolen piece was recently approved for installation. Special Events Coordinator Alva Fox provided updates on recent and upcoming special events. She reported successful community participation in the Spring Craft Boutique, Pet Expo, Go. Serve. Brea., and the City’s first Sister Cities cultural event. Staff noted that the Pet Expo had record attendance, with 41 animals adopted. Alva also shared positive feedback from the Sister Cities event and noted preparations are underway for the Family Films series and the upcoming Country Fair celebration recognizing America’s 250th anniversary.  5.B. Commissioner Requests Chair Bernal requested an update on the Brea Distiguished Brea Athlete. Interim Director Sean Matlock reported that Jeanette Pohlen was selected as this year’s honoree and was formally recognized by the City Council through adoption of a resolution. Staff is coordinating plaque design options and hopes to hold a presentation ceremony at the Brea Sports Park in August. Commissioners will be invited once details are finalized. Vice Chair Schultz requested a budget update at an upcoming meeting, Chair Bernal and Commissioner Tinio echoed this request. The Commission discussed the possibility of going dark in June and reconvening in July with updates from subcommittees. 6. Adjournment Chair Bernal adjourned the meeting at 6:22 pm.  CITY of BREA Special Cultural Arts Commission Communication July 15, 2026 Item No. 3A. Department Fiscal Year-End Overview TO PREPARED BY Chair and Members of the Cultural Arts Commission Sean L. Matlock, Interim Community Services Director DEPARTMENT HEAD APPROVAL CITY MANAGER APPROVAL Sean L. Matlock, Interim Community Services Director Kristin Griffith, City Manager BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION Staff will provide the Commission with a brief financial overview of the Community Services Department for Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2026.  CITY of BREA Special Cultural Arts Commission Communication July 15, 2026 Item No. 3B. Cultural Arts Recognition Update TO PREPARED BY Chair and Members of the Cultural Arts Commission Sean L. Matlock, Interim Community Services Director DEPARTMENT HEAD APPROVAL CITY MANAGER APPROVAL Sean L. Matlock, Interim Community Services Director Kristin Griffith, City Manager BACKGROUND/DISCUSSION Staff will partner with the subcommittee to provide an update on plans for the upcoming Cultural Arts Recognition Program, including a timeline and marketing associated with this effort. Special Events Family Films Special Events kicked off summer on Friday, June 19, with the first Family Films of the season. Community members came to City Hall Park for an 8:00 p.m. showing of Early Man. Family Films is proudly sponsored by the Sheila Bounauro Team, which provides popcorn, cotton candy, snacks, and drinks. In honor of this soccer-themed movie and the World Cup, the Sheila Bounauro Team also secured LA Galaxy defender Harbor Miller to make an appearance before the film for photos and autographs. It was a fun addition to the evening! We are looking forward to the remaining Family Films this summer. Special Events Home Beautification Challenge Twenty Brea residents submitted photos of the outside of their homes, showing off their best patriotic flair for the Home Beautification Challenge. We loved seeing the creative ideas, especially the addition of America 250-themed décor. The Country Fair Steering Committee will vote for their favorite homes, with winners being announced at the Country Fair. Special Events Upcoming: Brea Fest The City of Brea’s 38th annual Brea Fest will take place on Friday, August 7, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. throughout the Civic & Cultural Center. There will be live music, food and beverage samples from local restaurants, beer, wine, a Kidsville area, and so much more! Brea Fest admission and entertainment are free, and tickets for food and beverages are available for a nominal cost of $4 each. This event helps support cultural arts in Brea, including Special Events, the Brea Gallery, and the Curtis Theatre. We are looking forward to our "tastiest" event of the year! Social Media 5.4K Followers 10.4K Followers @breaspecialevents Special Events Correspondence Thank you for making Brea a better I appreciate your service to the city of place to live. Brea! -Steve -Jim (Home Beautification Challenge (Home Beautification Challenge participant) Participant) June 2026  Engagement Total Guests 623 The Gallery was open for 20 Days 79 Brea Resident 116 General Admission 92 Students/Seniors/Military 66 Child 2 Member 46 Curtis Theatre Partnership 222 Closing Reception, Open House Total Revenue for June 3,860 $5,428.93 Unique Website Visitors 6,705 Page Views 9,370 My Emma Email Subscribers Social Media Impressions Instagram 185,027 Facebook 4,154 Followers Gained Instagram 179 Total: 23,957 Facebook 0 2 New Memberships, 1 Renewal Total: 10,574 41 Total Members Twitter 0 Total: 439 2 Interns  ENGAGE NEW AUDIENCES THROUGH SUMMER SERENADE INCLUSIVE OPPORTUNITIES AND EXPERIENCES In partnership with the Curtis Theatre, the Brea Gallery was open for late night hours before the evening performance of the Orchestra Collective of Orange County’s annual Summer Serenade program. Concert patrons were granted free admission to the gallery and a gift shop sale before the performances. Over 60 patrons were able to enjoy a day of visual and performing arts through the collaboration. ASP TOURS CONNECT THE COMMUNITY THROUGH ARTS In collaboration with the Brea Community Center, campers from the summer and after school programs were invited to tour the gallery and participate in an arts and craft project based on the exhibition. Utilising collage techniques, campers created three dimensional abstract landscapes and portraits out of colored paper.  OPEN HOUSE A special thank you goes out to the city staff who joined us on June 25th for the Gallery’s Open House program. The private exhibition viewing, includes refreshments, a gift shop sale, and the opportunity for employees to pick their favorite work to be awarded the Popular Choice award. UPHOLD BREA’S COMMITMENT TO THE ARTS PURSUE JUNK JOURNALING SUSTAINABILITY AND STIMULATE LOCAL ECONOMIES The Brea Gallery invited the public to a creative junk journaling session on June 27th from 2- 4pm. This contemporary scrapbooking style encourages participants to compile memories into a casual visual format, spending an afternoon surrounded by inspiration. Light materials and supplies were provided, and sharing was encouraged.  CLOSING RECEPTION Brea Gallery’s 41st annual Made in California juried exhibition wrapped up with a free closing reception on June 28. The event featured live music by The Cecilia’s Band, a gift shop sale, and the final chance to view over 90 unique pieces created by local California artists. The Gallery is now closed after the closing reception to prepare for their upcoming collaborative exhibition with Los Angeles-based gallery, Thinkspace Projects, A Look to the Future: America at 350, opening July 25, 2026. ELEVATE BREA’S ART EXPERIENCES COMING UP NEXT A Look to the Future: America at 350 Opening Reception: July 25 An investigative art exhibition imagining what America will look like 100 years from now. How will people relate, govern, create, remember, and care for one another? What new myths, systems, landscapes, and identities will define the country’s next century? What will hold us together and help us look to the future?  June 2026 Marketing and Outreach Jumping Deer by Carlos Terrés has been installed at Northwood Ave and N Berry St. Residents have reached out the Gallery over the last 12 months asking for information about their beloved deer. Artist Carlos was on hand to supervise the repairs and installation. Final inspections and review pending! New artwork by Laddie John Dill was recently installed as a wall mounted sculpture on a new building at 3200 Nasa Street. Landscaping and lighting to be Missing APP Works added soon as construction progresses. Final inspection and review pending! Vicky, Tanya Ragir (Whittier/Puente) Porpoises at Play, John Edward Svenson (Imperial Hwy./Lambert Rd.) Jumping Deer, Carlos Terres (Berry St and Northwood Ave.) - in process of repair Just a Taste, J. Seward Johnson Jr. (Placentia Ave and Kraemer Blvd.) - in process of replacement Development Projects with Existing Sculpture Gaslight Square Redevelopment - Lamplighter, Robert Steinkamp Brea Mall Mixed Use - Jupe d'Eau, Pol Bury and La Lune, Niki de Saint-Phalle (reinstallation pending) Greenbriar Residential - The Road Ahead, Brad Howe Brea Plaza Apartments - Pratu, John Leighton Amazon Facility - Stonework ‘82, Seiji Kunishima Development Projects Pending New Sculpture Brea Mall Mixed Use – Committee Approved / Installation Pending South Brea Townhomes – Committee Approved / Installation Pending 3200 Nasa St – Final Inspection Pending 424 Berry St – Application Pending Mercury Lane Apartments – Application Pending Brea 265 Planning Area I – Application Pending 250 S. Kraemer Blvd - Application Pending 2727 E. Imperial Blvd - Application Pending 895 Columbia Street - Committee Approved / Installation Pending New Sculpture Pending Installation Centennial Door - Carlos Terres