Fine Arts Commission

Minutes from Skokie Fine Arts Commission November 10, 2024 | 7 p.m. In Attendance: Chair Pam Garbarini, Vice-chair Jeff Rhodes, Staff Liaison Meredith Gioia, Commissioners Ellen Blum Barish, Mira Chander, Pramod Joshi, Judy Levan, Doris Liberman, Sonya Osseny, Michelle Thomas, Sharon Vicker, Ellen Waxberg Call to Order at 7:03 pm Grant Application Review: The committee reviewed 10 grant proposals for 2024-2025 and unanimously agreed to fund 9 out of the 10 requests for a total of $9950. Anatomically Correct , $1000. Bessie Rhodes, $750. Callipygian Players, $1500. Hillel Torah, $700. North Niles Little Dragon Dance, $750. Niles North artist in residence for dance company, $750. Skokie Concert Choir, $1500. St. Tim’s Coffeehouse, $1500 (but this organization turned in the incorrect form. A new form will be requested). Xilin North Shore Chinese School, $1500.The committee was unable to fun St. Joan of Arc’s request for $750 due to its location in Evanston. Committee agreed to update language in the form to encourage proposers to say more about the project and budget needs. October 2024 Arts & Humanities Month Recap: Jeff Rhodes reported that the Arts calendar included “just about as many of the same organizations as last year” but may not have had more attendance this year. Discussion is needed for how to better promote next year. A subcommittee formed: Jeff Rhodes, Ellen Waxberg, and Sonya Osseny Skokie Art Space Pop-Up Gallery Recap: Meredith Gioia reported that 150 brochures were distributed during the month-long gallery. Total numbers are not known, but feedback has been very positive all around. A short discussion began on how to better promote for next year with sandwich board or balloons at the door to encourage walk ins. More discussion needed when the committee knows more about the space for next year. Farmer’s Market Update: The committee’s verbal interest in sponsoring a booth at the market was expressed to Jennifer, the manager. Commission will curate artists that may include print artists, jewelry makers, watercolorists, dancers and/or arts activity. Tent will be set up by village building staff. Artists will be responsible for bringing and unpacking their work and payment systems. A subcommittee responsible for artist outreach, scheduling and follow up formed: Mira Chander and Sharon Vicker Artistic Excellence Awards Update: Meredith Gioia presented the poster for this year’s awards. News will be in The Scoop next week. Deadline for candidates is December 20. Review of artists/groups scheduled for the January 2025 meeting. SOAR Update: Pam Garbarini announced that set up for SOAR will take place on February 28 but it was decided to move it to February 27 so as not to be on a Friday. Musicians from area junior high schools will be lined up Chair Garbarini. Dates will be finalized by week’s end. Artist Networking Event: Ellen Blum Barish reported that the owner of Sketchbook remembered the event from last year and was pleased to host another in February. Ellen will return to Amy Wilkinson with several Wednesday dates to confirm. A subcommittee responsible for set up, sign up, name tags and food formed that includes Ellen Barish, Doris Liberman, Mitch Thomas and Judy Levan. New Business: Meredith Gioia distributed a new artist directory form for feedback as well as the new village seal. Some discussion took place around the photography show - would it work to attach it to the pop up gallery next year or allow it to stand alone? Adjournment at 8:30 pm No meeting is scheduled for December 2024 Ellen Blum Barish, November 14, 2024