Public Art Committee reviews airport sculpture relocation, welcomes new GIS map

The Portland Public Art Committee reviewed a proposal to relocate two weathered steel deer sculptures at the airport due to a parking expansion, deciding to hold the vote until insurance questions are answered. The committee also approved the September 3 minutes, noted the departure of member Justin Levesque, and discussed the creation of a new interactive map of the city's public art collection.

Key points

• The committee voted to approve the minutes from the September 3 meeting.
• Committee members discussed the relocation of Wendy Kleppler's "Glimpse" sculptures at the airport, with staff presenting a proposed site 135 feet from the current location.
• Members expressed concern about the new site's proximity to a chain-link fence and utility areas, preferring a location that preserves the natural clearing aesthetic.
• The committee decided to hold the vote on the sculpture relocation until questions regarding insurance and liability for the move are resolved.
• Justin Levesque announced his resignation from the committee, citing time constraints due to living out of state, and was thanked for his service.
• Staff presented a new ArcGIS story map of the public art collection, which is now live on the city website and accessible via the Public Art Portland icon.

Next steps

• Staff will clarify insurance and liability coverage for the airport sculpture relocation before the next meeting.
• The committee will form a task force to develop guidelines for public memorials, with Anna Bullett volunteering to participate.
• Planning staff will create a social media graphic to promote the open committee seat left by Justin Levesque.
• Staff will coordinate with Creative Portland to share the new public art map on their website.

Read the full transcript