Public Arts Advisory Board Meeting – October 14, 2026

The Public Arts Advisory Board of Lakewood, Ohio, met on October 14, 2026, at 10:30 AM to approve meeting minutes, review a mural proposal, receive updates on ongoing projects, discuss the newly adopted Public Art Master Plan, and outline priorities for 2027. The board also thanked outgoing member Mr. Robars.

Consent Calendar

• Approval of July 8, 2026 Meeting Minutes: The minutes from the July 8 meeting were moved for approval, seconded, and passed unanimously without discussion.

Discussion Items

• 18605 Detroit Mural Proposal (Jared Malouf, representing The Forest on Detroit): Malouf presented a painted mural for the exterior wall of the building at 18605 Detroit Road. The design features nods to local institutions (Mayhall’s Summer House and Angelo’s) and includes images of St. James Church and Lakewood Park. The mural will be painted (not vinyl) and includes downlights for visibility. The landlord (owner of Summer House) requested the Summer House nod. The board discussed: (1) the two design options – one with a straight green edge and one with exposed brick wrapping around the corner (the latter was preferred by ARB and the board); (2) the wording on the mural – the current “Welcome to Lakewood” would be seen by drivers leaving the city; members suggested “Greetings from Lakewood” or “Thanks for visiting,” but left final language to the applicant and artist; (3) the abstract aerial view in the “L” and “W” letters – the board suggested making the view more recognizable; (4) the applicant agreed to provide a maintenance plan as suggested by staff. The board approved the proposal with administrative flexibility for minor design changes.
• Spectacular Vernacular Update 2026 (Staff Report): Staff reported on the successful ribbon cutting for the “All Good Dogs Go to Lakewood” mural (dog mural). The mural has attracted out-of-town visitors and generated community engagement. The artist is still finalizing a maintenance plan. Staff also shared an update on the Bird Town signs (artist Arlen) – each bird sign is hand-sanded, painted in layers with car paint, and mirrored. The artist is about halfway done; installation is expected in mid-November. The board discussed potential companion activities: a guided bird walk with a naturalist, walking maps, and stickers. Staff noted that a public art map with a scavenger hunt feature is being developed with the GIS coordinator.
• Public Art Master Plan Adoption: The master plan was formally adopted by City Council the previous week. Board members were thanked for their contributions. Staff outlined that the plan will guide future projects, and the board will be asked to help with public art condition assessments.
• 2027 Priorities: Staff presented preliminary ideas for 2027, including: adding QR codes to existing public art for language translation and artist info; a mural using a visually impaired-friendly color palette with tactile elements; a mural using air-purifying paint (aerosol removing technology); asphalt art at Madison Park basketball court or the park trail; and development of educational materials (artist bios, lesson plans). These ideas are not yet finalized.
• Farewell to Outgoing Member: Mr. Robars attended his last meeting after serving two three-year terms. The board expressed gratitude. Staff noted there are already applicants for the open position.

Key Outcomes

• Motion to Approve 18605 Detroit Mural Proposal: Moved, seconded, and passed unanimously. The proposal is approved with the board’s suggestions (exposed brick design, flexibility on wording and letter imagery). The applicant may proceed with administrative approval for minor changes.
• Motion to Adjourn: Moved, seconded, and passed unanimously.
• Next Steps: Staff will continue work on the public art map, maintenance plans, and 2027 project development. Board members may assist with art assessments. The bird sign installation is targeted for mid-November.