A dedicated public art fund, utilising one percent of value from eligible capital works projects is part of Noosa Council’s newly endorsed Public Art Policy.
The one per cent allocation from projects over $2 million will ensure that Noosa’s public art collection grows in a strategic and sustainable way. The fund will be used primarily for new public artwork and infrastructure to display permanent and temporary artwork.
The policy was formally adopted at Thursday’s Ordinary meeting.
Mayor Frank Willie said it’s a significant step forward in the shire’s cultural and artistic development.
“This new policy is long overdue, and its implementation will greatly improve the management of public art across Noosa and provide opportunities for artists and assist in their development,” he said.
Council has about 40 pieces of diverse public art, dating back to the 1970s, including small pieces of street furniture, through to the large sculptural works such as Glen Manning and Kathy Daly’s “Bunya” Corten sculpture at the entry of the Cooroy Butter Factory.
Chair of Noosa’s RADF committee Cr Karen Finzel is excited to see the outcomes from the newly endorsed dedicated fund and adopted policy.
“We now have a plan to help grow the Public Art collection strategically and cohesively with an emphasis on quality that best fits the shire,” she said.
“We value the creativity and culture of our community and public art is fundamental in telling our stories, adding character and celebrating our communities and landscapes,” Cr Finzel said.
The policy applies to all public artworks on Council owned and managed land, including new or proposed public artworks donated, bequeathed or created using Council resources.
The adoption of the new policy complements a process currently underway to select two major pieces of public art, being funded through the Southeast Queensland (SEQ) City Deal Public Art Initiatives program.
Ms Finzel said 65 submissions have been received through the first stage of the procurement process.
“It’s been such a positive response and staff are now carrying out the difficult task of shortlisting six submissions to proceed to the next stage,” Cr Finzel said.
The six shortlisted applicants will each receive $3000 to develop and present more detailed proposals. Two final applicants will then be selected to fabricate and install their artworks.
