Public Art Committee
Regular MeetingPortland, ME · September 17, 2025
Agenda
Anna Berke, Chair
Sharon Dennehy, Vice-Chair
Kat Zagaria Buckley
Phoebe Cole
Alison Gibbs
Kelly Hrenko, City Manager Appointee
Justin Levesque
Sarah Michniewicz, City Councilor
Stephanie Motter
John Whipple
Ronnie Wilson, Creative Portland Appointee
Management & Administration
Sean King, Urban Designer with Planning & Urban
Development Department
PORTLAND PUBLIC ART COMMITTEE
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
4:00 PM Room 209, 2nd Floor of City Hall and Zoom
1. Zoom Meeting Information
Due to the existence of an emergency or urgent issue the Portland Public Art Committee will conduct this
meeting by remote methods/technology at the Zoom link provided below, in accordance with the
requirements of 1 M.R.S. section 403-B and the City Council's Remote Participation Policy.
Allow your computer to install the free zoom app to get the best meeting experience. For more information
on how to use Zoom, please go to: https://content.civicplus.com/api/assets/18148b5d-f26e-472f-8d2c-
245db97e5c27?cache=1800 Public. Public comment will be taken; written comments may be submitted to
publicart@portlandmaine.gov
Please click the link to join the webinar: https://portlandmaine-gov.zoom.us/j/81634418875
Or One tap mobile : US: +19292056099,,81634418875# or +13017158592,,81634418875#
Or Telephone: Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 929 205 6099 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 669 900 6833 or +1 253 215 8782
or +1 346 248 7799
Webinar ID: 816 3441 8875
International numbers available: https://portlandmaine-gov.zoom.us/u/kcytm2arCM
2. Call to Order (Berke)
Roll call (King)
August 20, 2025 meeting minutes
3. Public Comment
4. Staff Communications (King)
1. Public art fund balance – No updates or invoices paid since last meeting on August 20, 2025
2. Encumbrances for new acquisitions of public art – No updates
5. Unfinished Business
VOTING ITEM: Conservation assessment proposal for FY25. The Committee is requested to review two
proposals for the conservation assessment of the City’s public art collection. Staff has prepared some
background material for the Committee’s consideration.
Tuckerbrook Conservation
1. Ron Harvey of Tuckerbrook Conservation, LLC offers conservation consulting, treatment, teaching,
management and assessment of collection care. Consulting and treatment of archaecological, ethnographic,
fine art objects, outdoor sculpture, zinc sculpture, storage, long-term preservation, collection handling,
lecturing, preservation workshops, conservation assessments and teaching. With forty-eight years of
experience.
2. Ron Harvey has performed restoration on the City's collection by artist Bernard Langlais in 2024 and has
provided guidance for future maintenance for consideration by the Committee.
3. Current proposal outlines 9-10 days to complete at $1,200/day for an estimate of $10,800 but not exceed
$12,000.
Taggart Objects Conservation
1. Jonathan Taggart of Taggart Objects Conservation, located in New Georgetown, Maine, has provided
conservation assessment, restoration and maintenance for the Portland public art committee since 2001.
Previous conservation assessments have outlined priorities for public artwork conservation to preserve the
longevity of the City’s Collection.
2. Previous conservation assessment was completed on July 29, 2021 with an associated cost of $8,630.
3. Current proposal outlines 8 days, based on $150 per hour for an estimated cost of $11,576.
6. New Business and Subcommittee Reports
Governance/Board Development (Berke, Dennehy)
1. VOTING ITEM: Annual plan report FY25 & Proposed Budget FY26 - Final Draft. The committee is
requested to review and vote with a recommendation ahead of the City Council agenda request.
Acquisitions (Formerly "Gifts) Subcommittee (Cole, Zagaria, Hrenko)
1. Subcommittee members to share updates.
Communications Subcommittee (Motter, Berke, Gibbs)
1. Subcommittee members to share updates.
Collection Management (Formerly "Site Selection") Subcommittee (Dennehy, Gibbs, Berke, Zagaria)
1. Subcommittee members to share updates.
7. Project Reports
Conservation Projects - No priority projects
Maintenance Projects
1. VOTING ITEM: Rustle Diptych II - Staff to provide updates to install conduit and in ground light
fixtures in September based on current quote by Casco Bay Electric and Excavation work by the City of
Portland. The Committee is requested to review the updated proposal and vote with a recommendation.
2. Portland Bricks (Dennehy, Gibbs) - Staff or Committee members to share ay updates from artist Ayumi
Horie.
Harbor Common - Committee members Berke, Cole, Dennehy, Levesque & Zagaria make up a
subcommittee to develop a Request for Proposal (RFP) with City Staff for a potential new acquisition
located within the future park on the Eastern Waterfront.
8. Other Business
9. Meeting Adjourns
Next Meeting - October 15, 2025
Packet
Anna Berke, Chair
Sharon Dennehy, Vice-Chair
Kat Zagaria Buckley
Phoebe Cole
Alison Gibbs
Kelly Hrenko, City Manager Appointee
Justin Levesque
Sarah Michniewicz, City Councilor
Stephanie Motter
John Whipple
Ronnie Wilson, Creative Portland Appointee
Management & Administration
Sean King, Urban Designer with Planning & Urban
Development Department
PORTLAND PUBLIC ART COMMITTEE
Wednesday, September 17, 2025
4:00 PM Room 209, 2nd Floor of City Hall and Zoom
1. Zoom Meeting Information
Due to the existence of an emergency or urgent issue the Portland Public Art Committee will conduct this
meeting by remote methods/technology at the Zoom link provided below, in accordance with the
requirements of 1 M.R.S. section 403-B and the City Council's Remote Participation Policy.
Allow your computer to install the free zoom app to get the best meeting experience. For more information
on how to use Zoom, please go to: https://content.civicplus.com/api/assets/18148b5d-f26e-472f-8d2c-
245db97e5c27?cache=1800 Public. Public comment will be taken; written comments may be submitted to
publicart@portlandmaine.gov
Please click the link to join the webinar: https://portlandmaine-gov.zoom.us/j/81634418875
Or One tap mobile : US: +19292056099,,81634418875# or +13017158592,,81634418875#
Or Telephone: Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 929 205 6099 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 669 900 6833 or +1 253 215 8782
or +1 346 248 7799
Webinar ID: 816 3441 8875
International numbers available: https://portlandmaine-gov.zoom.us/u/kcytm2arCM
2. Call to Order (Berke)
Roll call (King)
August 20, 2025 meeting minutes
3. Public Comment
4. Staff Communications (King)
1. Public art fund balance – No updates or invoices paid since last meeting on August 20, 2025
2. Encumbrances for new acquisitions of public art – No updates
5. Unfinished Business
Page 1
VOTING ITEM: Conservation assessment proposal for FY25. The Committee is requested to review two
proposals for the conservation assessment of the City’s public art collection. Staff has prepared some
background material for the Committee’s consideration.
Tuckerbrook Conservation
1. Ron Harvey of Tuckerbrook Conservation, LLC offers conservation consulting, treatment, teaching,
management and assessment of collection care. Consulting and treatment of archaecological, ethnographic,
fine art objects, outdoor sculpture, zinc sculpture, storage, long-term preservation, collection handling,
lecturing, preservation workshops, conservation assessments and teaching. With forty-eight years of
experience.
2. Ron Harvey has performed restoration on the City's collection by artist Bernard Langlais in 2024 and has
provided guidance for future maintenance for consideration by the Committee.
3. Current proposal outlines 9-10 days to complete at $1,200/day for an estimate of $10,800 but not exceed
$12,000.
Taggart Objects Conservation
1. Jonathan Taggart of Taggart Objects Conservation, located in New Georgetown, Maine, has provided
conservation assessment, restoration and maintenance for the Portland public art committee since 2001.
Previous conservation assessments have outlined priorities for public artwork conservation to preserve the
longevity of the City’s Collection.
2. Previous conservation assessment was completed on July 29, 2021 with an associated cost of $8,630.
3. Current proposal outlines 8 days, based on $150 per hour for an estimated cost of $11,576.
6. New Business and Subcommittee Reports
Governance/Board Development (Berke, Dennehy)
1. VOTING ITEM: Annual plan report FY25 & Proposed Budget FY26 - Final Draft. The committee is
requested to review and vote with a recommendation ahead of the City Council agenda request.
Acquisitions (Formerly "Gifts) Subcommittee (Cole, Zagaria, Hrenko)
1. Subcommittee members to share updates.
Communications Subcommittee (Motter, Berke, Gibbs)
1. Subcommittee members to share updates.
Collection Management (Formerly "Site Selection") Subcommittee (Dennehy, Gibbs, Berke, Zagaria)
1. Subcommittee members to share updates.
7. Project Reports
Conservation Projects - No priority projects
Maintenance Projects
1. VOTING ITEM: Rustle Diptych II - Staff to provide updates to install conduit and in ground light
fixtures in September based on current quote by Casco Bay Electric and Excavation work by the City of
Portland. The Committee is requested to review the updated proposal and vote with a recommendation.
2. Portland Bricks (Dennehy, Gibbs) - Staff or Committee members to share ay updates from artist Ayumi
Horie.
Harbor Common - Committee members Berke, Cole, Dennehy, Levesque & Zagaria make up a
subcommittee to develop a Request for Proposal (RFP) with City Staff for a potential new acquisition
located within the future park on the Eastern Waterfront.
8. Other Business
9. Meeting Adjourns
Next Meeting - October 15, 2025
Page 2
Anna Berke, Chair
Sharon Dennehy, Vice-Chair
Kat Zagaria Buckley
Phoebe Cole
Alison Gibbs
Kelly Hrenko, City Manager appointee
Justin Levesque
Sarah Michniewicz, City Councilor
Stephanie Motter
John Whipple
Ronnie Wilson, Creative Portland appointee
Management & Administration
Sean King, Urban Designer with Planning & Urban Development Department
PORTLAND PUBLIC ART COMMITTEE
August 20, 2025
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. online via Zoom link
Meeting Minutes
Due to the existence of an emergency or urgent issue the Portland Public Art Committee will conduct
this meeting by remote methods/technology at the Zoom link provided below, in accordance with the
requirements of 1 M.R.S. section 403-B and the City Council's Remote Participation Policy.
Allow your computer to install the free zoom app to get the best meeting experience.
For more information on how to use Zoom, please go to:
https://content.civicplus.com/api/assets/18148b5d-f26e-472f-8d2c-245db97e5c27?cache=1800 Public
Public comment will be taken; written comments may be submitted to publicart@portlandmaine.gov
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://portlandmaine-gov.zoom.us/j/81634418875
Or One tap mobile : US: +19292056099,,81634418875# or +13017158592,,81634418875#
Or Telephone: Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 929 205 6099 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 669 900 6833 or +1 253 215 8782
or +1 346 248 7799
Webinar ID: 816 3441 8875
International numbers available: https://portlandmaine-gov.zoom.us/u/kcytm2arCM
------------
1. Call to Order (Berke), Meeting start at 4:03pm
+ Roll call (King) Committee members absent (Zagaria, Gibbs, Motter, Whipple, Wilson)
+ July 16, 2025 meeting minutes. Motion to approve meeting minutes (Dennehy), second (Cole), All
approved by show of hands
2. Governance/Board Development (Berke, Dennehy)
A. Annual plan report FY25 & Proposed budget FY26 draft updates. Committee chairs continue to
work with Staff to finalize the annual report and proposed budget, this report will be shared at a
future PPAC meeting for a recommendation ahead of a City Council agenda item.
3. Staff Communications (King)
A. The Portland Water District approved the public easement and maintenance agreement during a
Board of Trustee hearing on July 28, 2025 for the proposed public art gift from Judith Kendrick
and Jim DiBiase. City Council voted to accept the proposed public art gift on July 14, 2025,
Page 3
Council order 3/25-26.
B. Public art fund balance – No updates or invoices paid since last meeting on July 16, 2025
C. Encumbrances for new acquisitions of public art – No updates
4. Subcommittee Reports
+ Harbor Commons Subcommittee (Dennehy, Cole, Zagaria, Berke). A Committee member working
group will begin to meet with the goal of develop an artist RFP for a new acquisition at the site of a
new eastern waterfront park.
+ Acquisitions (Formerly “Gifts”) Subcommittee (Cole, Zagaria, Hrenko)
1. Subcommittee members to share updates. Zagaria continues to be liason for the India
Street monument. Hrenko continues to communicate with potential gift of public art in
Kennedy Park, any materials would need to be shared one week in advance of the PPAC
meeting.
+ Communications Subcommittee (Motter, Berke, Gibbs)
1. Subcommittee members to share updates. No updates
+ Collection Management (Formerly “Site Selection”) Subcommittee (Dennehy, Gibbs, Berke,
Zagaria)
1. Subcommittee members to share updates.
2. Conservation assessment proposal for FY25 updates. Committee member discussion
about the two proposals and comparison of costs. Committee members elected to
postpone a vote to a future meeting to allow more time to review the proposals. Staff
will publish the proposals as an attachment before the next PPAC meeting.
5. Project Reports
A. Conservation Projects – No priority projects
B. Maintenance Projects
1. Rustle Diptych II – Staff to provide updates to inground light fixture replacement
regarding a quote for additional work to replace the electrical conduit. Committee
members requested a revised quote and a schedule update for the next PPAC meeting.
2. Portland Bricks (Dennehy, Gibbs) – Committee member updates from artist Ayumi
Horie. No updates
6. Other Business – The next public art committee meeting will be hybrid with an opportunity for in-
person or remote via Zoom.
7. Public Comment – No public comment
8. Meeting adjourns at 4:52 pm
Page 4
FY26 - Public Art Fund (July 2025-June 2026)
TOTAL PPAC Balance
A Total Balance (includes FY26) $ 412,221.05
B Total Encumberances $ 202,172.00
C Remaining Balance $ 210,049.05
Remaining Encumbrances from approved budget plans
Activity Description Budget
A Congress Square Public Art New Commission - Sarah Sze artist $ 176,000.00
B Bramhall Square Artwork New Commission - Chris Miller artist $ 26,172.00
Total Encumbered $ 202,172.00
F26 - Proposed Budget Breakdown
Activity Description Proposed FY26 Budget Current Budget Balance
To cover routine maintenance, priority conservation
A Conservation and Maintenance items
To cover repairs, theft, relocation, Community Art
B Contingency Fund grant, plaque purchase, etc.
C New Artwork New acquisition + install:
Total FY26 Budget $ 50,000 $ 50,000.00
FY26 Expenses Funding Source Total (PAID) Project Notes
Subtotal Expenses $ -
Page 5
Draft September 2025
RULES OF THE PORTLAND PUBLIC ART COMMITTEE
ARTICLE I. GENERAL PROVISION.
Section 1. These rules are supplementary to the provisions of Chapter 14 of
the Municipal Code as it relates to the procedures of the Portland Public Art
Committee and are adopted pursuant to the authority granted in Section 14-854
(b) (4) of said Code.
Section 2. Roberts Rules of Order shall supplement these rules and shall
control procedures not covered by these rules.
ARTICLE II. OFFICERS AND DUTIES.
Section 1. The officers of the Committee shall be the Chair and Vice Chair.
The Chair shall preside at all meetings and fulfill the customary functions of that
office. In the absence of the Chair, the Vice Chair shall act as Chair and shall
have all of the powers of the Chair.
Section 2. The Chair and Vice Chair shall be elected annually by the
regular members at the regular meeting in June.
Section 3. Officers shall be eligible for re-election. No person shall serve
as Chair for more than two consecutive years.
Section 3. The Chair may establish sub-committees to accomplish specific
tasks, and shall appoint chairs and members for those sub-committees as may be
appropriate.
Section 4. In the absence of both the chair and the vice chair, the
committee shall elect a chair pro tempore from among its number, and the chair
pro tempore shall have all the powers of the chair during the chair’s and the vice
chair’s absence. In the absence of the vice chair, or when the vice chair is
serving as the chair, the board shall elect a vice chair pro tempore from among
its number, and the vice chair pro tempore shall have all the powers of the vice
chair during the vice chair’s absence or service as chair. The committee shall
conduct votes by roll call of members present.
ARTICLE III. MEETINGS.
Section 1. Regular meetings shall be held monthly. At the December
meeting the Committee shall establish a regular schedule of meeting times and
dates for the following year, and such meetings shall be scheduled in City Hall or
Page 6
Draft September 2025
at such other public and accessible location. Notice of meetings shall be given
through listing with the City Manager’s Public Meeting Calendar and the City of
Portland web page.
Section 2. The Chair, in consultation with the Urban Designer or the
designated City staff person, shall set the agenda for meetings.
Page 7
Draft September 2025
ARTICLE IV. ORDER OF BUSINESS.
Section 1. All regular meetings of the Committee shall proceed as follows:
a. Roll call and declaration of quorum.
b. Reading and approval of minutes of the previous meeting.
c. Communications.
d. Unfinished Business.
e. New Business.
f. Adjournment.
ARTICLE V. VOTING & DECISION.
Section 1. The presence of a majority of the members of the Committee
shall constitute a quorum.
Section 2. As to any matters not requiring a binding vote of the Committee,
the Committee may meet and deliberate at any properly called meeting,
regardless of the presence of a quorum, or may continue consideration of such
matter to any later meeting. However, no final action shall be taken on such a
matter without a quorum being present.
Section 3. Recommendations to the City Council shall include findings of
fact and the reason or reasons for such recommendations, and shall contain a
separate statement setting forth the recommendation of the Committee.
Section 4. Any one or more members of the Committee may file minority
or dissenting reports in support of any position on any recommendation made to
the City Council.
Section 5. In the event of a tie vote, the matter shall be tabled to the next
meeting, where it shall be considered as unfinished business.
ARTICLE VI. AMENDMENT OF RULES.
Section 1. These rules may be amended by an affirmative majority vote of
the members of the Committee.
Section 2. The proposed amendment must be presented in writing at a
regular or special Committee meeting preceding the meeting at which the vote is
taken.
Section 3. Any proposed amendment shall be communicated to the City
Council and shall not be in effect until due process has been observed as pursuant
to Section 20.5.2.D.14-854 (b) (4).
Page 8
PORTLAND PUBLIC ART MAINTENANCE AND CONSERVATION
ASSESSMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL
The Portland Public Art Committee (PPAC) periodically evaluates the existing public art
collection, currently comprised of 60 public artworks, to determine priorities from
maintenance and conservation. The purpose of this request for proposal is for trained
professionals to provide a comprehensive assessment and suggest recommendations for
maintenance, repair, and conservation services that the Portland public art committee can
utilize to determine priorities.
Responding professionals are requested to prepare a cost proposal to assess and outline
maintenance priorities in coordination with the PPAC and the Department of Planning
and Urban Development. This document will be referred to as the “Portland public art
maintenance and conservation assessment” and should include recommendations based
on critical, high, medium and low priorities. All of the assessed collection should
inventory the public artwork in appearance to be structurally stable, and only include
information of maintenance needs if required.
Any public artwork that the professional deems to be of critical importance of repair should
provide a cost estimate as an attachment to a final report.
ASSESSMENTS
The responding professional is requested to organize each individual public art collection
items into a comprehensive assessment reports that includes photographs and maintenance
recommendations that pertain to each identified artwork. Previous assessment reports with
maintenance priorities with highest priorities at the top are encouraged to allow for the PPAC
to easily refer to this information.
Photographs in the digital copies of this report should be high resolution to allow
examination of the works in greater detail if needed.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The responding professional is requested to suggest maintenance recommendations for each
of the individual works that are critical, high and medium priorities.
The primary recommendation for the management of the entire collection is to develop a
Long-Range Conservation Plan. This would aid in estimating the known annual maintenance
needs and associated costs for the entire collection, and projecting them forward for a
number of years.
1. Develop a long-range Public Art Collection conservation/maintenance plan.
Example:
Page 9
• Establish a long-range conservation plan scheduling treatment for the entire collection
for 10 years.
• Establish a medium-range conservation/maintenance plan covering the collection for
5 years.
• Establish a short-range conservation/maintenance plan to be contracted for the next 2
years.
• Assess collection every two years on a quick form to add to the database.
• Review every two years, change priorities as need, and add new works to schedule.
2. Develop an ongoing maintenance schedule based on this assessment and the maintenance
plan.
3. Identify which pieces can be maintained by appropriate City staff, and train them in the
recommended maintenance procedures.
The goal is to reduce the overall cost to the City by using available staff on appropriate
projects, and to improve the overall maintenance of works that need regular maintenance.
SUBMISSION
The responding professional is requested to submit the following information and should
coordinate with City staff to address questions. Please contact Sean King, Urban Designer
via email at sking@portlandmaine.gov or office phone at 207-874-8901.
• Resume, to include education background, relevant experience and certifications or
licensures
• Previous examples of conservation work and/or public art maintenance assessments
• Cost estimate
• Timeline
Page 10
Community Location
Column1 Title Thumbnail Artist Artwork Date (created) (Latitude, Longitude) Type Materials Condition Date (of last conservation) Owner Sign? Notes
Relocated from Congress Square Plaza to new East End
Surveyed 2001: stable condition, relocated in 2009 to School, 2009 (?); PTO fundraising w/ PPAC match to
1. Stone Dragon Carol Hanson (USA, b. 1948) Y 1997 East End School - 195 North Street Sculpture Carved Granite East End School 2017 City Y expand piece as originally intended.
2. Michael John Raimondi (USA, b. 1948) N 1974 One City Center Plaza Sculpture Corten Steel Surveyed 2000: scheduled for conservation in 2002 2002 City Y
Franklin Simmons (USA, 1838-1913); pedestal 1888 (?) or 1891 (?) Sculpture,
3. Longfellow Monument design: F.H. Fassett N dedicated: 1891 Longfellow Square Monument Bronze, granite base Surveyed 2001, 2015; Conserved 2005, 2016 City Y
Franklin Simmons (USA, 1838-1913) base: Sculpture,
4. Our Lady of Victories Richard M. Hunt N erected: 1888; Monument Square Monument Bronze, granite base Surveyed 2001, 2015; Conserved 2005, 2016 2016 City
Lillian M.N. Stevens Memorial Fountain, George E. Wade (British, dates unknown) base: Portland Public Library - 5 Conserved and refurbished in 2005. Move to Main
5. or Temperance (The Little Water Girl) Frederick T. Tompson N 1917 Monument Square Sculpture Bronze, granite base library lobby 2010 City
original plaster cast:
Victor Kahill (USA, 1895-1965) fabricator: 1939; bronze cast,
6. The Maine Lobsterman Normal Therrien N 1974 Lobsterman Square Sculpture Bronze, granite base Surveyed 2000: conservation in 2002 City Y
Sculpture,
7. Fireman Statue Edward Souther Griffin (USA, 1834-1928) N 1898 Pearl, Federal and Congress Sts. Monument Bronze, granite base Surveyed 2000: stable City
Sculpture, Lanscape architects: Mohr & Seredin, Portland, ME;
8. John Ford Statue George M. Kelly, NYC N 1998 Gorham's Corner Monument Bronze on cement, Surveyed 2001: conserved in 2005 City Sponsor: Linda Noe Lane Foundation; conserved 2005
Surveyed 2001: stable condition. Vehicle crash in 2022
9. Obelisk Memorial to George Cleeves artist unknown N 1883 E. Prom at Congress St. Monument Carved Granite caused removal of decorative metal fencing City Y
Surveyed 2001: Conserved and refurbished w/ site
improvements and vehicle protection 2005, 2011.
Stanley Pullen Foundation Memorial George Burnham (USA, 1875-1931) executed: Conserved with hot wax on plaque, mortar patches +
10. Fountain N.H. Granite Co. N 1910 Federal at Pearl Sts. Fountain Carved Granite joints between granite blocks in 2024 2024 City Y
Landscape Architect: Richardson & Associates, Saco, ME
Charles J. Loring, Jr. Veterans Ann Uppington, Brookline, MA with Richardson Carved granite and & Theo Holtwijk, Portland, ME; family contact Sabrina
11. Memorial Park and Associates, Saco, ME N 2000 Eastern Promenade, Loring Circle Monument brick Surveyed 2001: treatment needed in next 1-5 years City Y Loring (207) 799-2370 anchorcrane@maine.rr.com
The Ravine in Deering Oaks: The Carol Hanson, sculptor Mohr & Seredin, Stone, water, plant
12. Circle of Life Landscape Architects Y 1999 Deering Oaks Park Carved relief material Surveyed 2001: treatment needed in next 1-5 years City Y Sponsor: City of Portland & Friends of Deering Oaks
Sculpture, Surveyed 2000: Conservation completed 2011; Hot wax
13. Thomas Brackett "Czar Reed" Burr Churchill Miller (USA, 1870-1925) N 1910 Western Promenade Monument Bronze, granite base applied 2024 2017 City Y
Sculpture,
14. Civil War Monument George E. Brown/Hawkes Brothers N 1908 Eastern Cemetery Monument Bronze, granite base Surveyed 2001: stable condition City Y
Spanish War Veterans Monument, or Theodora Alice Ruggles Kitson (USA, 1871- Sculpture, Surveyed 2000: conservation in 2001, 2011. Hot wax
15. "The Hiker" 1932) N 1906 Deering Oaks, Park St. Monument Bronze, granite base applied 2024 2017 City Y
Surveyed 2001: Removed the old coating and corrosion
in 2020. Complete conservation to treat mild steel, prime
16 Untitled (Armillary) Patrick Plourde N 1979 E. Prom Trail @ Franklin Sculpture Steel and paint 2022. 2020 City Gift from Portland Trails
Conserved in 2005 and 2016; Expo staff contacted
17 Union Station Mural Don Thayer N Expo Lobby - 239 Park Ave Mural Acrylic paint Surveyed 2001. Conserved 2005, 2016 2016 City Planning regarding removing mural (2018)
18 Lincoln Park Fountain Val D'osne manufacturing N Lincoln Park @ Congress St. Fountain Cast iron Conserved 2005 2017 City
Colonel Boothby originally donated the piece to the City in
1903 in memory of his wife. Removed in mid-1900s.
19 Boothby Square Watering Trough unknown N Installed 2005 Boothby Square @ Fore St. Fountain Granite Conserved in 2005 City Y Reinstalled in 2005.
Cast iron, anodized Glass replaced 2021, 2023, 2024. Addressed corrision at
aluminum, holographic metal jointing and attachments, wax coating applied
20 The Jewel Box Bus Shelter Laura Haddad and Tom Drugan N 2005 Congress St.@ Monument Sq Functional glass (2016) 2016 City Y
Community members, coordinated by Natasha
Mayers, w/Alice Spencer and Rick Renner. Cast Longfellow Sq., Congress St @
21 Art Underfoot in Portland by Patrick Obrien. Y 2006 State Street Paving Bronze 12-14 brick cast missing (2025). PPAC will not replace. City Y
Winslow Park - Baxter Boulevard
22 Rustle Diptych Vivian Beer N 2007 @ Preble Street Sculpture Steel Graffiti removed in 2015 City Y
23 Cloud Couch Vivian Beer N 2007 Back Cove - Baxter Boulevard Functional Steel 2017 City Y Relocated to Back Cove Trail 2014
Page 11
Gift of Dan Burke, Owner of Sea Dogs baseball team.Three
pieces in ensemble representing family (4 persons)
24 Hadlock Field Family Sculpture Rhoda Sherbell N Summer 2006 Hadlock Field Plaza, 271 Park Ave. Sculpture Bronze New as of Summer, 2006 City attending a baseball game.
Gift of William D. and Mary Louise Hamill Glimpse is
comprised of 8 pieces: Lumbering Stag, Fawn, Yearling,
International Boulevard (Airport New as of Fall, 2011; Coated with wax conditioner upon Grazing Doe, Scratching Doe, Running Doe, Howling
25a Glimpse Wendy Klemperer N 8/1/2011 Access Road) Sculpture Weathered Steel installation; Repeat annually. City Wolf, and Porcupine. Porcupine stolen between 4/1/16 and
International Boulevard (Airport
25b Glimpse: Grazing Deer Wendy Klemperer N Installed 2014 Access Road) Sculpture Weathered Steel City Added to Glimpse ; Gift of William D. Hamill
International Boulevard (Airport
25c Glimpse: Alert Yearling Wendy Klemperer N Installed 2014 Access Road) Sculpture Weathered Steel Some conservation in 2017 City Added to Glimpse ; Gift of William D. Hamill
International Boulevard (Ariport Gifted by June LaCombe 2016 to replace stolen Porcupine;
25d Glimpse: Porcupines Wendy Klemperer N 2016 Access Road) Sculpture Weathered Steel Some conservation in 2017 City Y Wendy Klemperer (347) 223-8876
Artist reshape and carve some spots casued by vehicle
collision, applyed Ibix cleaning system and a waterproof
26 Tidal Moon Jesse Salisbury N Installed 2012 Portland Jetport, outside Sculpture Granite sealer in 2023. 2023 City Gift of William D. and Mary Louise Hamill
27 Eagle Cabot Lyford N Installed 2013 Portland Jetport, Grand Hall Sculpture Wood, granite base City Y Gift of William D. Hamill
28 Cod Steve Lindsay N Installed 2013 Portland Jetport, Grand Hall Sculpture Granite City Y Gift of William D. Hamill
29 Shorebird Edwin Gamble N Installed 2013 Portland Jetport, Grand Hall Sculpture Bronze, slate base City Y Gift of William D. Hamill
30 Balance Roy Patterson N Installed 2013 Portland Jetport, Grand Hall Sculpture Basalt, granite base City Y Gift of William D. Hamill
31 Beach Pea Jesse Salisbury N Installed 2013 Portland Jetport, Grand Hall Sculpture Granite City N Gift of William D. Hamill
32 Sculpted Bench Jesse Salisbury N Installed 2013 Portland Jetport, outside Functional Granite City Gift of William D. Hamill
33 Bench Jesse Salisbury N Installed 2013 Portland Jetport, outside Functional Granite City Gift of William D. Hamill
Gift of the Kohler Foundation on behalf of the Langlais
Portland Public Library - 5 Kohler Estate. Pieces will be restored and transported by Kohler;
34 Elephant Bernard Langlais N 1976-77 Monument Square Sculpture Wood planks Restored by Kohler Foundation Foundation Y City will install, maintain, and find sites indoors.
Gift of the Kohler Foundation on behalf of the Langlais
Deering HS (2) - 370 Stevens Kohler Estate. Pieces will be restored and transported by Kohler;
35 Bird Houses Bernard Langlais N 1977 Avenue Sculpture Wood, paint Restored by Kohler Foundation 2013 Foundation Y City will install, maintain, and find sites indoors.
Gift of the Kohler Foundation on behalf of the Langlais
Portland HS (3) - 284 Cumberland Kohler Estate. Pieces will be restored and transported by Kohler;
36 Bird Houses Bernard Langlais N 1977 Ave Sculpture Wood, paint Restored by Kohler Foundation 2013 Foundation Y City will install, maintain, and find sites indoors.
Gift of the Kohler Foundation on behalf of the Langlais
Kohler Estate. Pieces will be restored and transported by Kohler;
37 Bird Houses Bernard Langlais N 1977 Casco Bay HS (3) - 196 Allen Ave Sculpture Wood, paint Restored by Kohler Foundation 2013 Foundation Y City will install, maintain, and find sites indoors.
Gift of the Kohler Foundation on behalf of the Langlais
Restored by Kohler Foundation. Replacement of several Kohler Estate. Pieces will be restored and transported by Kohler;
38 Playing Bears Bernard Langlais N 1976-77 Jetport (inside) Sculpture Wood, paint wood claws and wood grafting to foot in 2024 2024 Foundation Y City will install, maintain, and find sites indoors.
Gift of the Kohler Foundation on behalf of the Langlais
Ocean Gateway - 14 Ocean Kohler Estate. Pieces will be restored and transported by Kohler;
39 Bear Bernard Langlais N 1977 Gateway Pier Sculpture Wood, paint Restored by Kohler Foundation 2013 Foundation Y City will install, maintain, and find sites indoors.
Gift of the Kohler Foundation on behalf of the Langlais
Portland Public Library, Peaks Sculpture Kohler Estate. Pieces will be restored and transported by Kohler;
40 Lion's Head Bernard Langlais N 1976 Island Branch - 129 Island Ave (mobile) Wood, paint Restored by Kohler Foundation 2013 Foundation City will install, maintain, and find sites indoors.
Gift of the Kohler Foundation on behalf of the Langlais
Estate. Pieces will be restored and transported by Kohler;
Restored by Kohler Foundation. Damages observed due Kohler City will install, maintain, and find sites indoors. Moved to
41 Acrobatic Dogs Bernard Langlais N 1977 Jetport (inside) Sculpture Wood, paint to artwork falling over. 2013 Foundation Y Jetport 2016, relocated to several locations in Jetport.
International Boulevard (Ariport
42 A Spirit of Its Own Jay Sawyer N Installed 2014 Access Road) Sculpture Steel Shear Rings \ Loan Loan
43 Link Jesse Salisbury N Installed 2014 Jetport (outside) Sculpture Granite City Gift of William D. Hamill
Page 12
44 Rabbit Lise Becu N Installed 2014 Jetport, Grand Hall Sculpture Granite Boulder City Y Gift of William D. Hamill
45 Figure Don Justin Meserve N Installed 2014 Jetport, Grand Hall Sculpture Granite City Y Gift of William D. Hamill
46 Gyre Falcon Andreas von Huene N Installed 2014 Jetport, Grand Hall Sculpture Feldspar, Wood City Y Gift of William D. Hamill
Gift of the Kohler Foundation on behalf of the Langlais
Peaks Island School - 4 Church Wood and Paint on Kohler Estate. Pieces will be restored and transported by Kohler;
47 Untitled, Abstract piece Bernard Langlais N ca. 1960 Avenue #1157 Relief wood Assesed by Kohler Foundation; Installed 2016 Foundation na City will install, maintain, and find sites indoors.
Gift of the Kohler Foundation on behalf of the Langlais
Peaks Island School - 4 Church Wood and Paint on Kohler Estate. Pieces will be restored and transported by Kohler;
48 Untitled, Abstract piece Bernard Langlais N ca. 1961-62 Avenue #1157 Relief wood Assesed by Kohler Foundation; Installed 2016 Foundation na City will install, maintain, and find sites indoors.
Gift of the Kohler Foundation on behalf of the Langlais
Peaks Island School - 4 Church Kohler Estate. Pieces will be restored and transported by Kohler;
49 Untitled, Abstract piece Bernard Langlais N Avenue #1157 Relief Wood on wood Assesed by Kohler Foundation; Installed 2016 Foundation na City will install, maintain, and find sites indoors.
Gift of the Kohler Foundation on behalf of the Langlais
Peaks Island School - 4 Church Kohler Estate. Pieces will be restored and transported by Kohler;
50 The Parade Bernard Langlais N 1957-62 Avenue #1157 Relief Wood on wood, canvas Assesed by Kohler Foundation; Installed 2016 Foundation na City will install, maintain, and find sites indoors.
Gift of the Kohler Foundation on behalf of the Langlais
Peaks Island School - 4 Church Kohler Estate. Pieces will be restored and transported by Kohler;
51 Untitled, Abstract piece Bernard Langlais N Avenue #1157 Relief Wood Assesed by Kohler Foundation; Installed 2016 Foundation na City will install, maintain, and find sites indoors.
Peaks Island School - 4 Church Kohler
52 Untitled, Abstract piece Bernard Langlais N Avenue #1157 Relief Wood on wood Assesed by Kohler Foundation; Installed 2016 Foundation na To be installed
Gift of the Kohler Foundation on behalf of the Langlais
Burbank Library Branch - 377 Kohler Estate. Pieces will be restored and transported by Kohler;
53 Untitled, Abstract piece Bernard Langlais N Stevens Avenue Relief Wood on wood Assesed by Kohler Foundation; Installed 2016 Foundation Y City will install, maintain, and find sites indoors.
Casco Bay Ferry Terminal - Maine Donated by Ann Waldron 2015; MOU with Casco Bay
54 Puffin Bernard Langlais N 1976 State Pier Sculpture Painted wood Tail repaired 2016; Foot repaired 2016 2015; 2016 City Y Ferry Lines; Lighting added 2016
Ayumi Horie, Elise Pepple, Pilar Nadal; 30 Phrases, 90 Bricks. 9-12 bricks replaced with standard
55 Portland Brick Community Art project Y 2015 India Street Neighborhood Paving Terracotta (90 pieces) bricks during construction projects City N Community Art project; City DPS install
Woodfords Corner
56 Luminous Arbor Aaron T Stephan N 2018 (43.6707473, -70.284086) Sculpture City Y
Extraordinary Journey (Great Black Deering Oaks Park Bronze; Granite
57 Hawk) David Smus N 2020 (43.6573182, -70.2727664) Sculpture column City Y
Deering Roundabout - Deering
@Brighton Ave Bronze, granite
58 Passing the Torch Mark Pettegrow N 2021 (43.6617199, -70.2788279) Sculpture boulders Lighting replacements in 2024-2025. City Y
Deering Oaks Park
59 Pinecone Patrick Plourde N 2022 (43.657677, -70.2729581) Sculpture Reclaimed steel Rusted steel shovels City Y
Fish Point at Eastern Promenande
60 Gathering Stones Jesse Salisbury N 2022 (43.6657613, -70.2390287) Sculpture Granite (7 pieces) Minor cleaning off graffiti by artist in 2023 2023 City Y
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JONATHAN TAGGART
Taggart Objects Conservation
644 Five Islands Road, Georgetown, ME 04548-3309
Phone: 207-371-20991, cell: 207-522-9435
Email: jtaggart@gwi.net
April 9, 2025
TO: City of Portland Maine, Public Art Committee
CONTACT: Sean King, PLA
Urban Designer
389 Congress Street, 4th Floor
Portland, Maine 04101
(207) 874-8901
sking@portlandmaine.gov
The Portland Public Art Collection assessment 2025
Jonathan Taggart of Taggart Objects Conservation proposes to:
‐ Assess of conditions for the entire public art collection – 61 artworks
‐ Summarize Conservation/Maintenance recommendations
‐ Prioritize the conservation needs for next five years (2025‐2030)
‐ Photograph condition of artworks only as needed
- Report information on a digital spreadsheet compatible with existing collection data
This estimate is based on one hour per artwork including travel between art works, examination,
assessment, photography if needed and data entry, based on a hourly rate of $150/ hr. for current
clients. It is estimated that this would result in 8 working days and 8 round trips to Portland.
The costs for each trip to Portland include travel time at half-rate, mileage, and per diem. The
estimate per round trip is $247/trip. The City already has a W-9 and insurance certificates on file,
but copies could be provided if needed. The assessment will be completed within the calendar
year or timeframe included in the contract.
My plan is to assess the collection in collaboration with my conservation technician, who has
worked with me on this collection for more than 5 years, to familiarize him with all of the City’s
collection. My plan is to have him take over much of the routine maintenance treatment of the
collection, with my assistance and oversight.
Cost of assessments: $9,600
Cost of travel related expenses $1,976
Estimated cost of assessment $11,576
Please feel free to discuss this estimate with me if you have any concerns.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Taggart
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Tuckerbrook Conservation LLC
2498 Belfast Road
Lincolnville, ME 04849
18 August 2025
Conservation Review of Portland Public Art based on sculptures outlined on the spread sheet
Public Art Collection_current2024.
Scope of Work
The proposed conservation assessment of the Portland Public Art would address:
The current condition of the artworks
The conservation priorities of artwork in need of treatment
The type of treatments needed over the next 5 years
The conservation assessment would result in treatment estimates for the time and cost associated
with each treatment.
Tuckerbrook Conservation would require up to 7 days to survey the collections, then another 2-3
days to establish a priority of artworks in need of treatment and outlines the treatments (time and
materials) to estimate costs of said treatments.
Surveying the collections, reviewing previous treatments (materials and techniques), contacting
some artists to determine the artist’s intent regarding treatment and aesthetic appearance as
needed to formulate treatments will be included in the estimate.
The estimate for the above scope of work is not to exceed 10 days. Tuckerbrook Conservation
has an established daily rate of $1200.00 per day. The estimate would be between $10,800.00
but not exceed $12,000.00
Submitted by
Ronald Harvey
Principal /Senior Conservator
Tuckerbrook Conservation LLC
2498 Belfast Road
Lincolnville, ME 04849 USA
cell: 207 446 2390
rsharvey@tidewater.net
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Planning and Urban Development
Portland Public Art Committee
FY25 Annual Report & FY26 Budget Plan
FY25 Public Art Committee Annual Report & FY26 Budget Plan
I. Overview
II. Administrative Updates
A. Committee Members
B. Administration & Policy
C. Subcommittees:
1. Governance Subcommittee
2. Acquisitions Subcommittee
3. Communication Subcommittee
4. Collection Management Subcommittee
III. Conservation & Maintenance
A. Conservation Projects
B. Maintenance Projects
IV. Acquisitions
V. Accomplishments in FY25
VI. Goals for FY26
VII. Proposed Budget FY26
389 Congress Street, Portland, Maine 04101 | ph: 207.756.8258 | planning@portlandmaine.gov
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I. Overview
In April 2000, the City Council established the Portland Public Art Program to preserve, restore, and
enhance the City’s public art collection. The Portland Public Art Committee (PPAC) is tasked to
commission art that engages the surrounding environment to facilitate a sense of place by expressing
the spirit, values, and visions of Portland through public art.
The public art collection currently contains sixty permanent pieces installed throughout Portland and
one long‐term loan. Details on the collection can be viewed on the Public Art website
(https://www.publicartportland.org/). The collection comprises works of both historical significance,
dating from the nineteenth century, and contemporary pieces reflecting Portland’s diversity and spirit.
The PPAC administers the Portland Public Art Program; the Committee’s responsibilities are outlined in
the City’s Land Use Code, Chapter 14, Article 20 Public Art Program. The Committee refers to the
Guidelines for the Public Art Ordinance (Volume 2, Number 1 – revised 2021) for direction in
administering their responsibilities.
The Portland Public Art Committee is responsible for the following:
• Develop and present an Annual Public Art Plan to the City Council, which includes
recommendations for the use of allocated CIP funding, program administration, conservation of
the collection, and initiation of new projects.
• Provide recommendations to the City Council regarding proposed gifts to the collection.
• Seek donations to fulfill Committee responsibilities in the case that CIP funding is insufficient.
• Recommend appropriate locations for the installation of public art;
• Promote public awareness and engagement between the public and the collection.
II. Administrative Updates
A. Committee members during fiscal year 2025 (FY25) between July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025:
• Anna Berke, Chair.
• Sharon Dennehy, Vice-Chair.
• Kat Zagaria Buckley
• Phoebe Cole
• Alison Gibbs
• Kelly Hrenko, City Manager’s Appointee
• Stephanie Motter
• Sarah Michniewicz, City Council Representative
• Saa Rosenblatt
• John Whipple
• Ronnie Wilson, Creative Portland Appointee
Management & Administration:
• Sean King, Urban Designer, Planning and Urban Development Department
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B. Administration and Policy
In FY25 the Committee developed an inquiry and informational form to better help artists,
individuals, and organizations navigate the application process for proposed gifts of public art
and community artworks. The form is available for download here and on the Portland Public
Art Committee website.
C. Subcommittees
1. Governance Subcommittee:
The Governance Subcommittee includes committee members Anna Berke (Chair) and Sharon
Dennehy (Vice-Chair).
The Public Art Committee welcomed the appointments of Ronnie Wilson (Creative Portland) and
Sarah Michniewicz (District 1, City Councilor). The Committee also welcomed the nomination of
Saa Rosenblatt and the reappointments of Anna Berke, Alison Gibbs, and Kat Buckley Zagaria to
new three-year terms.
Recommended Addition to the Rules of the Portland Public Art Committee – Pro Tempore
Officers
To ensure a clear process for assigning roles and responsibilities when the Chair, Vice Chair, or
both are absent, the Governance Subcommittee is recommending an amendment to the Rules
of the Portland Public Art Committee to include a procedure for electing pro tempore officers.
The proposed revision is outlined below, with a full redlined draft of the amendments included
as Attachment A.
ARTICLE II. OFFICERS AND DUTIES
Section 4. In the absence of both the chair and the vice chair, the committee shall elect a
chair pro tempore from among its number, and the chair pro tempore shall have all the powers
of the chair during the chair’s and the vice chair’s absence. In the absence of the vice chair, or
when the vice chair is serving as the chair, the board shall elect a vice chair pro tempore from
among its number, and the vice chair pro tempore shall have all the powers of the vice chair
during the vice chair’s absence or service as chair. The committee shall conduct votes by roll call
of members present.
Additionally, to ensure that the Rules of the Portland Public Art Committee align with the latest
Land Use Code references, the amendment below is recommended to update the section
reference to the current Land Use Code.
ARTICLE I. GENERAL PROVISION.
Section 1. These rules are supplementary to the provisions of Chapter 14 of the Municipal
Code as it relates to the procedures of the Portland Public Art Committee and are adopted
pursuant to the authority granted in Section 20.5.2.D.14-854 (b) (4).of said Code.
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ARTICLE VI. AMENDMENT OF RULES.
Section 3. Any proposed amendment shall be communicated to the City Council and shall
not be in effect until due process has been observed as pursuant to Section 20.5.2.D. 14-
854(b)(4).
In accordance with the Rules of the Portland Public Art Committee, Article VI, Section 3, any
proposed amendment to the rules shall be communicated to the City Council and shall not be in
effect until due process has been observed as pursuant to Section 14-854 (b)(4), which states
that any and all rules or changes to rules shall be placed on a City Council agenda as a
communication. The rule or rules shall take effect 45 days after the date of placement on the
council agenda, unless the City Council takes official action disapproving the rules, in whole or in
part, prior to the expiration of the 45-day period.
2. Acquisitions Subcommittee:
The Acquisitions Subcommittee includes committee members Kat Zagaria Buckley, Phoebe Cole,
and Kelly Hrenko.
In FY25, the Acquisitions Subcommittee developed an information and inquiry form and
received three completed submissions from individuals and community groups interested in
exploring the acquisitions process. The Subcommittee also implemented a rotating liaison role
to assist applicants with project details and address questions prior to review by the Portland
Public Art Committee.
The Acquisitions Subcommittee received and processed the following application for
consideration as a potential gift of public art:
• A proposed gift of public art, to be located in the India Street neighborhood (District 1),
for a new sculpture by Giuliano Cecchinelli from donors Judith Kendrick and Jim DiBiase.
The Public Art Committee assisted the applicants in developing a detailed proposal
schedule and provided guidance on complying with the Public Art Committee Guidelines
for the consideration of gifts of public art.
Additionally, the Public Art Committee received two applications for consideration as potential
community artworks, including:
• An inquiry form submission by Zack Barowitz, on behalf of the Libbytown Neighborhood
Association, was introduced to the Committee on February 26, 2025 for a new sculpture
by Vivian Beer located at Thomas Park. This submission is still under consideration by
the Committee, which has requested additional information from the applicant before a
future review.
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• An inquiry form submission, entitled Astragal, by artist Stephen Oliver and Peace Action
Maine to commission a new sculpture at Amethyst Park along the Eastern Promenade
Trail. The proposed sculpture included etched architectural resin of various colors to
resemble lighthouse lens. The Portland Public Art Committee reviewed the community
artwork application in accordance with the public art guidelines on December 18, 2024
and voted to reject (7-0, committee members Michniewicz, Motter, Rosenblatt absent)
on February 26, 2025.
3. Communications Subcommittee:
The Communications Subcommittee includes committee members Stephanie Motter, Kelly
Hrenko, and Anna Berke.
In FY25, the Communications Subcommittee expanded engagement through social media to
promote the City’s public art collection.
• The Public Art Committee’s Instagram account saw:
o 159 content interactions (a 100% increase from FY24)
o 88 new followers, bringing the total to 382 (up from 294 in FY24)
o A reach of 947 individuals (a 682.6% increase in FY24)
• The Public Art Committee’s Facebook account saw:
o 27 content interactions (a 350% increase from FY24)
o 18 new followers, bringing the total to 536 (up from 518 in FY24)
o A reach of 294 individuals (a 169.7% increase from FY24)
4. Collection Management Subcommittee:
The Collection Management Subcommittee includes committee members Sharon Dennehy,
Kat Zagaria Buckley, Alison Gibbs, and Anna Berke.
In FY25, the Collection Management Subcommittee refined the list of priority site locations
identified in the FY23 Annual Report as lacking public art. The following sites have been
identified for potential artwork installations and will be prioritized for future projects in
FY26.
• North Deering neighborhood - specifically the trails behind Lyseth Elementary
School and Lyman Moore Middle School.
• Riverton Neighborhood - Riverton Trolley Park
Additionally, in FY25, the Collection Management Subcommittee developed a conservation
assessment request for proposal to hire a conservator to evaluate, identify, and prioritize
the maintenance needs of the entire public art collection over the next two to five years.
III. Conservation & Maintenance
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The purpose of the Public Art Program is to care for and maintain artworks in the public art collection. It
is essential to the longevity and safety of the works in the collection to engage a conservator for
conservation and repair of our public art collection. Conservation and maintenance completed in FY25
included the following:
A. Conservation Projects:
1. Repair to the Pullen fountain (District 1):
A protective hot-wax coating was applied to the existing plaque; mortar patches were toned
to match the granite; missing mortar between the granite blocks was replaced; and the
fountain was cleaned with a low-pressure power wash.
Figure 1: After treatment photo of Pullen fountain
B. Maintenance Projects:
1. Major Charles J. Loring Memorial Park (District 1):
Installation of two in-ground light fixtures to replace the light fixtures that were damaged
during a previous car incident with the granite sentinel post.
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Figure 2: New in-ground lights at the granite sentinel post
2. Passing the Torch at Deering roundabout (District 3):
The existing artwork features lighting integrated within the sculptures and the perimeter
planted area of the Deering Avenue roundabout. One sculpture light was replaced to
correct color temperature issues, and two stem-mounted lights were replaced to resolve
outages.
Figure 3: Passing the Torch sculpture light replacement
3. Glass replacements at Jewel Box bus shelter (District 1):
Several glass panels at the Jewell Box bus shelter, located along Congress Street near
Monument Square, have continued to be damaged by corrosive graffiti. As a result, the
panels have been replaced. The frequency of graffiti and damage continues to impact this
389 Congress Street, Portland, Maine 04101 | ph: 207.874.8719 | planning@portlandmaine.gov
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public resource. City staff are working with the artist, Metro, contractors, and other city
departments to identify alternative solutions for more sustainable maintenance and
improved usability for public transit riders.
Figure 4: Jewel box bus shelter
IV. Acquisitions
There was one gift of public artwork accepted into the collection: a new sculpture by Giuliano
Cecchinelli, donated by Judith Kendrick and Jim DiBiase, as described in Section V. Accomplishments of
this document. There were no additional acquisitions of public artwork during FY25.
V. Accomplishments in FY25
A. Signage implementation:
1. Acrobatic Dogs at Portland Jetport (District 3)
The standard Portland Public Art plaque was installed for Acrobatic Dogs at the Portland
Jetport to replace the paper sign that had deteriorated.
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Figure 5: Public art plaque replacement
B. Gifts of Public Art:
1. The Public Art Committee recommended to accept (9-0, Wilson absent) a proposed gift
of public art on April 30, 2025. The donors, Judith Kendrick and Jim DiBiase, propose to
commission a new sculpture by Giuliano Cecchinelli and launch a private fundraising
campaign to cover the costs of fabrication, transportation, and installation. The
sculpture would depict an immigrant family, carved in granite, as a commemoration to
the India Street neighborhood. The artwork will be installed at 176 India Street on
property owned by the Portland Water District with a public access agreement to the
City.
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Figure 6: Proposed gift of public art by artist Giuliano Cecchinelli
VI. Goals for FY26
A. Five-year vision
The Portland Public Art Committee reviews and sets priorities for the public art program to
guide decision-making over the next five years. The Committee’s five-year vision includes:
• Finalize the acquisition and completion of all encumbered artworks, including Shattered
Sphere by Sarah Sze in Congress Square Park and Keeper of the Picnic by Christopher Miller
in Bramhall Square. Both of these artworks are contingent on the park refurbishments being
completed.
• Evaluate the Guidelines for Public Art Ordinance and revise (if necessary);
• Further public education, interest, and enjoyment of public art by providing public art walks
or public art guides in Portland; and to publicize and archive the collection. This includes
revising the website to provide additional functions and increase traffic, to increase social
media presence, and to meet with City stakeholders to reinforce the Committee’s mission.
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• Increase donation solicitation for projects supported by the Public Art Committee,
particularly for projects that enhance community engagement and identity. To solicit grant
and private money for current and upcoming projects;
• Prioritize site selections based on the Public Art Committee’s commitment to locate public
art more equitability throughout Portland, with a particular focus on neighborhoods with no
or limited public art.
• Expand the public art collection in outer Portland through initiatives such as community
artwork projects.
• Launch and complete the acquisition process for a new public artwork associated with the
Portland Harbor Commons project, which is scheduled to begin construction in 2025.
• Continue to provide forums for public input, including offering committee meetings in a
hybrid format for both in-person and virtual participation.
• Monitor the Reimagine Franklin Street process and identify opportunities for major new
artwork installations.
Ultimately, these goals aim to contribute to Portland’s identity as a cultural destination. The
Committee recognizes that the prevalence and quality of Public Art will greatly contribute to
Portland’s overall image and increase both national and international recognition.
B. Specific goals by subcommittees in FY26
1. Communications
• Increase community collaboration between various City departments and local
neighborhood organizations
• Increase social media followers by 3% and interactions by 50%
• Create a formal process for university collaborations
• Find new content to promote when the public art collection is not growing rapidly
• Find areas to promote information outside of digital formats
2. Collection Management
• Conduct an conservation assessment of the public art collection to evaluate and
prioritize future conservation projects that ensure high-quality maintenance with cost-
effective solutions. Manage the conservation assessment once a conservator is selected.
• Maintain the digital collection management resource files for the collection,
conservation priorities and maintenance projects.
• Conduct a lighting assessment for the public art collection to inventory the condition
and priorities for future maintenance.
• Review individual public art plaques to evaluate potential replacements based on the
Committee’s signage detail standards established in 2023.
3. Acquisitions
• Continue to focus on FY25 goals to improve clarity, inclusivity and transparency within
the acquisitions processes.
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• Identify opportunities for new artwork installations related to the Reimagine Franklin
Street project for inclusion in future Annual Plans.
• Expand opportunities to commission new artwork for the Collection using remaining
public art funds from previous years, aligned with projects funded through the City’s
Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The Committee will draft a Request for Proposals (RFP)
for new artwork at one or all of the following sites in the upcoming fiscal year:
o Portland Harbor Commons
o Riverton Trolley Park
o North Deering neighborhood – Lyseth Moore area trails
• Anticipate potential gifts of public art and site them in the priority locations.
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VII. Proposed Budget FY26
Article 20, Section 20.4.1 Establishment of Public Art Fund of the Land Use Code details the
establishment of a special revenue fund designated as the Public Art Fund in the City treasury from
which expenditures may be made in accordance with the Public Art Ordinance. Section 20.4.2 City-
funded projects of the Land Use Code, specifies that A percentage of the City’s Capital Improvement
Program (CIP) shall be calculated and appropriated annually to the Portland Public Art Fund. The annual
appropriation shall be .5% of the total annual CIP.
Remaining Encumbrances from previously approved Public Art Committee budget plans
Table 1 – Summary of Encumbered Funds
Activity Description Budget
A Congress Square Public Art New commission – Sarah Sze artist $176,000
B Bramhall Square Artwork New commission $26,560
Total Encumbered $202,560
Remaining Balance
In FY25, the PPAC and City Council discussed the need for a plan to allocate funds that have rolled over
from previous budgets. The PPAC Art Fund currently has $362,609 in unspent funds from prior years. Of
this amount, $202,560 (Table 1) is already encumbered for two previously committed acquisitions:
Sarah Sze’s project at Congress Square Park and a new artwork commission at Bramhall Square. This
leaves $160,049 remaining.
City staff recommend retaining $30,049 for the conservation and maintenance of the public art
collection, to cover the collection assessment and identified conservation projects, leaving $130,000
available. Based on the PPAC’s outlined goals and objectives, staff recommend using the remaining
funds allocated for commissioning new artwork to support new acquisitions at Portland Harbor
Commons, Riverton Trolley Park, and North Deering neighborhood. The proposed breakdown of the
recommended budget for using the unspent public art funds is shown below in Table 2:1 – Summary of
Encumbered Funds
Table 2 – Recommended budget for unspent public art funds
Total Carried Over Art Funds Description $362,609
Encumbered Sarah Sze & Bramhall Square Acquisitions $202,560
Available Public Art Funds Unspent funds $160,049
Activity Description Budget
New Artwork Commissions New Commissions for Portland Harbor $130,000
Commons, Riverton Trolley Park, and North
Deering neighborhood.
Conservation and Maintenance To cover conservation and maintenance $30,049
efforts for the public art collection.
Total Budget $160,049
Proposed Budget FY26 (July 1, 2025 - June 31, 2026)
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In addition to the proposed plan to utilize unspent funds rolled over from prior fiscal years, described
above, the PPAC has developed the following budget for FY26. For FY26, $50,000 is allocated to the
Public Art Fund. The proposed use of these funds is outlined below in Table 3. As recommended to the
City Council during the FY24 & FY25 Budget Plan we added a new activity line to account for Community
Artworks Grants.
Table 3 – Proposed Budget FY26 (July 1, 2025 – June 31, 2026)
Activity Description Budget
A Conservation and Maintenance To cover the five-year Collection $10,000
conservation assessment, lighting
assessment and complete conservation
projects identified as highest priorities.
B Contingency Fund To cover unplanned minor repairs, theft, $5,000
replacement, and plaque purchases.
C Community Artwork Grants To contribute to a community artwork $5,000
project(s).
D New Artwork Commissions New commission for Portland Harbor $30,000
Commons.
Total FY26 Budget $50,000
Attachments
Attachment A – Rules of the PPAC_Redlined
Attachment B – Fiscal year 2025 Temporary art program, prepared by the Planning & Urban
Development
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Estimate #54668
Billing Address Service Address Send Payment To Sent On 06/02/25
City of Portland, Maine Winslow Park Portland Casco Bay Electric, LLC
Attn: John Peverada Baxter Boulevard 322 Presumpscot St Total $3,560.00
389 Congress Street Rm 20 Corner of Baxter Boulevard Portland ME 04103 Payments $0.00
Portland ME 04101 and Preble St Extension +12072213331
cac@portlandmaine.gov Portland ME United States office@cascobayelectric.com Balance $3,560.00
cac@portlandmaine.gov
Contact: Sean King
Contact: Sean King
Charges
Item Description Unit Cost Tax Quantity Line Total
Electrical Casco Bay Electric, LLC will perform the following work: $3,560.00 1.0 $3,560.00
- Maine
Inclusions:
1. Provide (2) in ground hand hold electrical boxes (1 near street light and
1 near near fixtures)
2. Provide PVC and conductors for underground power from hand hold
electrical box near street light to new fixtures - Connections for hand
hold box to street light will be completed at a later time
3. Install (2) new customer supplied KIM Lighting (LTV82SS/NF/18L3KUV)
fixtures
Electrical Exclusions: $0.00 1.0 $0.00
- Maine
1. Assume appropriate power available at street light
2. Assume existing lighting controls will remain
3. Connection from hand hold box to street light provided by others
4. Assume City of Portland will take care of trenching permit and traffic
(vehicle or pedestrian) plan including cost
Subtotal $3,560.00
Tax $0.00
Total $3,560.00
Notes
To view your detailed estimate please either hit "Download" at the top of this page to download a PDF version or select "View
Details" then hit the drop down next to the price.
Terms
General Conditions:
This proposal is valid for 15 days.
All applicable taxes are included.
Payment is due at time of service (a deposit may be required depending on the size of the project and/or the equipment needed).
A 3% service fee will be added to all credit card payments on projects over $5,000. All other payment types will not incur this fee.
All work to be performed during normal business hours.
Others shall not hold the electrical contractor liable for errors or omissions in designs, for inadequacies of specified materials or
equipment, or for any indirect loss or damage.
The electrical contractor warrants materials to the extent of their manufacturer's warrantee.
All bonding and/or special insurance requirements are supplied at additional cost.
Any formal contract must not deviate from this proposal without the electrical contractor's agreement.
Any communication, which is contrary to these conditions, shall be null and void.
Proposal does not include an engineer design or stamped plans
Proposal does not include any modeling or drafting (BIM, CAD, 3D Modeling, Etc.)
Proposal does not include the cutting, patching, coring or painting of floors, walls, foundations, or drives.
Proposal does not include any trenching, backfilling, manholes, hand holes, or pre-cast concrete
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Proposal does not include any trenching, backfilling, manholes, hand holes, or pre-cast concrete
Proposal does not include access panels or roof penetrations.
Proposal does not include any fire stopping or maintaining of any fire ratings.
Proposal does not include the HVAC low-voltage controls or control wiring.
Proposal does not include any power, telephone or CATV utility charges
In any action incurred to enforce this contract or defend services provided according to the contract, the prevailing party shall be
entitled to reasonable attorney's fees and collection costs, including but not limited to court costs.
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