Syracuse Public Arts Commission Meeting – September 29, 2026

On September 29, 2026, the Public Arts Commission met at 5:40 PM and adjourned at 6:14 PM. After an initial delay due to quorum issues (one commissioner was stuck in traffic), the meeting proceeded with two main approvals: the Whitlock Building mural and a temporary video projection at the Everson Museum. The commission also elected a vice chair and a secretary, and discussed ongoing challenges with commissioner vacancies and project delays.

Discussion Items

• SPAC 2612 – Whitlock Mural (Allie Walker): The artist reported updates on the design after Salt City Market requested substitutions. The original design featuring wings was replaced with a heart and tree imagery, and the rainbow palette was changed to match existing murals. Community engagement events are planned for October 16 and later dates. The commission approved the motion unanimously.
• SPAC 2613 – “Dream Deep Enough to Remember: The Films of Tamika Galanus” (Lightworks Urban Video Project): Annika Hare presented three completed films for a temporary architectural projection on the Everson Museum from October 15 to December 19, 2026. The fourth film, a work-in-progress about Harriet Powell, was not included; the commission approved the three completed films on a partial basis, noting that if the fourth is finalized, a new application may be needed. The projection will include QR codes for context and captions.
• Commissioner Vacancies and Administrative Updates: Chair Benny Guzman noted that three commissioner appointments are stalled with Mayor Owens’ office and encouraged members to send emails. The public art coordinator position (funded by the county budget) is expected to be posted soon. The electronic sign in the Valley was reported as functional again.
• Election of Vice Chair and Secretary: Sofia Gutierrez was nominated and unanimously approved as vice chair. Emma Garcia was nominated and unanimously approved as secretary, a role that will help with meeting minutes and agendas.

Key Outcomes

• Motion to approve SPAC 2612 (Whitlock mural): Passed unanimously (moved by Lisa Lambert, seconded by Emma Garcia).
• Motion to approve SPAC 2613 (partial approval of three films): Passed unanimously (moved by Elias Gwynn, seconded by Emmanuel Carter).
• Appointment of Sofia Gutierrez as Vice Chair: Unanimous (moved by Emma Garcia, seconded by Emmanuel Carter).
• Appointment of Emma Garcia as Secretary: Unanimous (moved by Elias Gwynn, seconded by Emmanuel Carter).
• Adjournment: Motion passed unanimously at 6:14 PM.