Syracuse Public Arts Commission Meeting – December 9, 2025

Introductory Paragraph

The Syracuse Public Arts Commission met on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 5:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order with introductions of commissioners present: Elias Gwen, Emma Raider, Sophia Gutierrez, Emmanuel Carter, and Devana Robity. The commission reviewed minutes from the previous week, approved one new mural proposal, and discussed administrative topics including commissioner terms, recruitment, public art coordinator hiring, and engagement with the I-81 highway art project. The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:10 PM.

Consent Calendar

• Minutes Approval: The commission reviewed and unanimously approved the minutes from the December 2, 2025 meeting, noting that quorum had not been present at that meeting.

Discussion Items

• SPAC 2519 – Jump Shot and Skyline by Allie Walker: The artist presented a proposal for two murals on the CNC Minimum building at North Salina Street. The mural titled "Syracuse Skyline at Dusk" would be painted on both sides of the entryway, and "Jump Shot" on the corner would feature a generic character reaching for a jump shot using an orange and blue palette. The artist confirmed the wall had been repaired, a maintenance plan (UV coating and touch‑ups) was in place, and the project was postponed to spring 2026 due to weather. Commissioners asked about the condition of the wall, maintenance, timeline, and the potential logo-like appearance of the basketball figure, but after seeing a color image, concerns were resolved. The proposal was approved by a motion from Devana, seconded by Elias, with all in favor.
• Commissioner Terms and Appointments: Commissioner Byrd reported that terms for three commissioners had been extended to the end of January 2026, when a new mayor takes office. Letters from the mayor’s office will allow commissioners to choose to stay. The commission discussed the need to clarify which members are appointed by the mayor versus the Common Council, and to update the website. Rebecca Patterson was recommended by a commissioner for an open artist position; she introduced herself as an art teacher and small business owner.
• Public Art Coordinator Position: The job description has been re‑benchmarked by HR and the position will be posted soon. Commissioners asked for a timeline and requested notification when the posting is live.
• Art Commission 101 & Public Info Sessions: The commission agreed to hold an orientation for new members and an annual public information session about the mural application process, possibly in a hybrid format (in‑person and via Zoom/WebEx). Questions about open meeting laws and virtual attendance were raised but deferred.
• Meeting Schedule & Communication: The next meeting was tentatively set for January 13, 2026, at 5:30 PM. Commissioners discussed changing the day of the week (e.g., Mondays) and using Doodle polls to find a better time. Calendar invites for meetings will be sent out rather than multiple emails.
• I‑81 Highway Art Project: Commissioners expressed concern about the lack of local artist involvement in the DOT’s digital artwork for the I‑81 viaduct project. It was noted that the DOT had not budgeted for art in the city portion initially, and community pressure led to inclusion. Recommendations to involve local 2D artists were discussed, and continued engagement with city officials (Joe Driscoll) was encouraged.

Key Outcomes

• Approved Mural Proposal: SPAC 2519 “Jump Shot and Skyline” by Allie Walker was approved unanimously. The artist will notify the commission upon completion.
• Next Meeting: Tentatively scheduled for January 13, 2026, at 5:30 PM. A Doodle poll may be sent to confirm a date and time that works for all commissioners.
• Commissioner Recruitment: Recommendations for new commissioners (e.g., Rebecca Patterson) will be sent via email to Commissioner Byrd. The commission will clarify appointment sources (mayor vs. council) and update the website.
• Public Art Coordinator: HR is finalizing the job posting; commissioners will be notified when live.
• Continued Advocacy: Commissioners will continue to press for local artist involvement in the I‑81 art project through direct communication with Mayor‑elect’s office and DOT representatives.