City of Santa Rosa Art in Public Places Committee - September 14, 2026

The City of Santa Rosa Art in Public Places Committee convened on September 14, 2026, to discuss several public art initiatives and projects. Key procurement-related topics included the draft proposal for the next temporary art walk spanning 2027 to 2029, which aims to feature up to 10 temporary public artworks with a focus on diverse cultural inspirations. The committee reviewed the call for artists, artist stipends ($5,000 total per artwork), eligibility criteria, and selection process, with plans to open the call in October 2026. Additionally, the committee addressed the restoration and permanent placement of the Ruth Asawa history panels, originally created in the 1980s and recently cast in bronze. The city allocated $75,000 from the public arts fund for this project, with a prior $300,000 allocation from a PG&E settlement fund. The committee unanimously approved a motion to explore alternative temporary display options for the panels and to engage the community in discussions about their final placement, considering factors such as maintenance, accessibility, and community input. Other updates included ongoing public art installations, upcoming calls for art, and community engagement efforts. No new contracts were awarded during the meeting, but several action items related to budgeting, artist selection, and project planning were outlined.