Portland Public Art Committee discusses Jewel Box deaccession, conservation needs

The Portland Public Art Committee held a hybrid meeting to review staff updates on public art projects and discuss a conservation assessment for the city's collection. The committee deferred votes on conservation priorities and the deaccession of the Jewel Box bus shelter, noting that a quorum was not present to conduct formal business. Public comment was taken on the Jewel Box, with residents citing safety concerns regarding the structure.

Key points

• The committee approved the July minutes by show of hands.
• Staff reported that the Bramhall Square project is on track for bid consolidation this fall, with Chris Miller remaining under contract for fabrication and installation.
• A conservation assessment by Tucker Brook Conservation LLC identified three priority pieces for treatment and one health and safety concern involving a Langdell sculpture at the airport.
• The committee discussed the deaccession of the Jewel Box bus shelter, citing high maintenance costs and safety hazards, and noted that relocation was considered but rejected as a solution.
• A public commenter from Brown Street expressed support for removing the Jewel Box, citing frequent 911 calls for overdoses and assaults occurring within the structure.
• The committee noted a vacant seat and announced that applications for the open position are due by August 30.

Next steps

• Staff will contact Chris Miller to re-engage him on the Bramhall Square project.
• Staff will research the cost of a new base for the airport sculpture to include in the next meeting's vote.
• The committee will share the conservation assessment findings with the Parks, Recreation, and Facilities Department regarding the Union Station mural leak.
• Staff will follow up with the communications lead to ensure social media access for committee members.
• The committee will work with city staff to develop a brochure and tablecloth for future public events.

Read the full transcript