Fine Arts Commission

Minutes Skokie Fine Arts Commission April 10, 2024 7 p.m. I. Call to Order at 7 p.m. by Chair Garbarini Present: Chairperson Garbarini, Staff Liaison Gioia, and Commissioners Beatrice, Blum Barish, Chander, Hatchett, Osseny, Sloan, Thomas, and Waxberg II. Artist’s Happy Hour Networking Event at Sketchbook a. All that attended were very pleased with the turnout for this first event. b. To improve: i. Parking - Skokie Sketchers were also having an event that night which contributed to the issue. ii. Perhaps provide some structure at the next event – the lack of structure was purposeful at this first event but having a panel discussion or round table or class or something may be good for future iii. Supply different color nametags so that attendees are more easily recognizable as to type of art iv. Plan another event for October to coincide with Arts & Humanities Month v. Do more outreach to bring in performing artists (dance, theater) c. Next steps: i. Begin to put together artist directory ii. Explore possible opportunity for “pop up gallery” space III. SOAR student art exhibit a. Some missed having a featured speaker. Will continue to discuss how we could do this without impeding on the open house nature of the reception b. Next year will set up Skokie backdrop and have students line up to take picture with mayor at a pre-scheduled time so that no one feels they missed out. c. Next year’s certificate paper has been purchased but, due to rising costs, future certificates will be the traditional 8.5” x 11” IV. Fine Arts Grant Updates a. $7500 of the $10000 awarded has been disbursed. Grant recipients have until end of April to claim monies. #619351  b. Commission needs to refine digital application for next year. c. Recommendation to provide grant limit to schools and organizations so that they know what to expect/ask for. d. Staff liaison Gioia will see if we can rollover any unclaimed funds to next budget year to support new programming. V. Skokie Through the Lens a. Theme will be “Signs of Skokie” b. Call for submissions will be included in next New Skokie newsletter and promotions will go out in Enewsletter and on social media c. Submissions will close in early September to allow subcommittee to review submissions and choose ones for the Village Hall lobby exhibit. VI. Next Storytelling Event a. Skokie Bike Network is hosting their second annual “Tales from the Trails” storytelling event on July 14 at Sketchbook and has asked if the Fine Arts Commission would like to be involved and support the event. All agreed it would be a good idea. Staff liaison Gioia and Commissioner Blum Barish will coordinate. VII. 2024 Arts & Humanities Month a. Commissioner Hatchett agreed to cochair with Vice chairperson Rhodes b. Commissioners Chander, Osseny, and Waxberg agreed to serve on the subcommittee. VIII. Adjournment #619351