Public Art Committee — Portland, ME
Date: 2026-06-17
Time: 16:00

PORTLAND PUBLIC ART COMMITTEE
 Wednesday, June 17, 2026
 4:00 PM 389 Congress Street (City Hall, Room 209)

1. Zoom Meeting Information
 Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android:
 https://portlandmaine-gov.zoom.us/j/81634418875

 Phone one-tap:
 +19292056099,,81634418875# US (New York)
 +13017158592,,81634418875# US (Washington DC)
 Webinar ID: 816 3441 8875
2. Call to Order
3. Approval of the April 15, 2026 Meeting Minutes, refer to Attachment A
 April 15, 2026 Meeting Minutes
4. Staff Communication - No public comment will be taken
 A. Public Art Fund
 B. Collection updates
 C. Encumbrances for new acquisitions of public art
 Selection Panel for the Artist / Artwork at Portland Harbor Common - Public
5.
 comment will be taken
 A. Action item: The Selection Panel Chair will present the artist selection panel’s
 recommendation for the new public art commission at Portland Harbor Commons. The
 Committee will discuss and vote to select the artist / artwork for the new public art commission
6. Deaccessioning Policy and Procedures - Public comment will be taken
 A. Action item: The Committee will review and consider recommending that the relocation or
 deaccessioning of the Jewel Box bus shelter from the Public Art Collection be incorporated
 into the Public Art Committee Annual Plan.
7. FY26 Annual Report & FY27 Proposed Budget - No public comment will be taken
 A. Discussion item: Each year, the Committee is responsible for developing an Annual Report
 and Budget for Council consideration to help inform and guide the Committee’s work for the
 coming year. The Committee previously voted to approve the Annual Plan at its April 15,
 2026, meeting; however, the City Council has made an amendment to the FY27 CIP that may
 have implications for the Plan. Accordingly, staff will provide a brief overview of the
 amendment, along with proposed updates to the temporary art guidelines and the inclusion of
 the Jewel Box Bus Shelter relocation or deaccessioning in an updated plan. The Committee
 will also have an opportunity to provide additional input on potential goals, objectives, and
 budget recommendations. The Committee will be asked to vote on approval of an updated
 Annual Plan at its July 2026 meeting.
8. Subcommittee Reports - No public comment will be taken
 A. Governance/Board Development
 B. Acquisitions Subcommittee
 C. Communications Subcommittee
 D. Collection Management Subcommittee
9. Other Business
10. Adjourn

Next Meeting - July 15, 2026

PORTLAND PUBLIC ART COMMITTEE
 Wednesday, June 17, 2026
 4:00 PM 389 Congress Street (City Hall, Room 209)

1. Zoom Meeting Information
 Join from PC, Mac, iPad, or Android:
 https://portlandmaine-gov.zoom.us/j/81634418875

 Phone one-tap:
 +19292056099,,81634418875# US (New York)
 +13017158592,,81634418875# US (Washington DC)
 Webinar ID: 816 3441 8875
2. Call to Order
3. Approval of the April 15, 2026 Meeting Minutes, refer to Attachment A
 April 15, 2026 Meeting Minutes
4. Staff Communication - No public comment will be taken
 A. Public Art Fund
 B. Collection updates
 C. Encumbrances for new acquisitions of public art
 Selection Panel for the Artist / Artwork at Portland Harbor Common - Public
5.
 comment will be taken
 A. Action item: The Selection Panel Chair will present the artist selection panel’s
 recommendation for the new public art commission at Portland Harbor Commons. The
 Committee will discuss and vote to select the artist / artwork for the new public art commission
6. Deaccessioning Policy and Procedures - Public comment will be taken
 A. Action item: The Committee will review and consider recommending that the relocation or
 deaccessioning of the Jewel Box bus shelter from the Public Art Collection be incorporated
 into the Public Art Committee Annual Plan.
7. FY26 Annual Report & FY27 Proposed Budget - No public comment will be taken
 A. Discussion item: Each year, the Committee is responsible for developing an Annual Report
 and Budget for Council consideration to help inform and guide the Committee’s work for the
 coming year. The Committee previously voted to approve the Annual Plan at its April 15,
 2026, meeting; however, the City Council has made an amendment to the FY27 CIP that may
 have implications for the Plan. Accordingly, staff will provide a brief overview of the
 amendment, along with proposed updates to the temporary art guidelines and the inclusion of
 the Jewel Box Bus Shelter relocation or deaccessioning in an updated plan. The Committee
 will also have an opportunity to provide additional input on potential goals, objectives, and


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 budget recommendations. The Committee will be asked to vote on approval of an updated
 Annual Plan at its July 2026 meeting.
8. Subcommittee Reports - No public comment will be taken
 A. Governance/Board Development
 B. Acquisitions Subcommittee
 C. Communications Subcommittee
 D. Collection Management Subcommittee
9. Other Business
10. Adjourn

Next Meeting - July 15, 2026




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 Kat Zagaria Buckley, Chair
 Sharon Dennehy, Vice-Chair
 Anna Berke
 Phoebe Cole
 Kelly Hrenko, City Manager appointee
 Justin Levesque
 Sarah Michniewicz, City Councilor
 Stephanie Motter
 John Whipple
 Ronnie Wilson, Creative Portland appointee

 Management & Administration
 Sean King, Urban Designer with Planning & Urban Development Department

 PORTLAND PUBLIC ART COMMITTEE
 April 15, 2026 – Meeting Minutes
 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. HYBRID (in person or online via Zoom link)
 City Hall – Room 209, 389 Congress Street, Portland, ME 04101

 Due to the existence of an emergency or urgent issue the Portland Public Art Committee will conduct
 this meeting by remote methods/technology at the Zoom link provided below, in accordance with the
 requirements of 1 M.R.S. section 403-B and the City Council's Remote Participation Policy.

 Allow your computer to install the free zoom app to get the best meeting experience.

 For more information on how to use Zoom, please go to:
 https://content.civicplus.com/api/assets/18148b5d-f26e-472f-8d2c-245db97e5c27?cache=1800 Public

 Public comment will be taken; written comments may be submitted to publicart@portlandmaine.gov

 Please click the link below to join the webinar:
 https://portlandmaine-gov.zoom.us/j/81634418875
 Or One tap mobile : US: +19292056099,,81634418875# or +13017158592,,81634418875#
 Or Telephone: Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
 US: +1 929 205 6099 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 669 900 6833 or +1 253 215 8782
 or +1 346 248 7799
 Webinar ID: 816 3441 8875
  International numbers available: https://portlandmaine-gov.zoom.us/u/kcytm2arCM
 ------------
1. Call to Order (4:07pm)
 o Roll call
 o Committee members present – Berke, Zagaria Buckley, Cole, Dennehy, Michniewicz,
 Motter, Whipple; Committee members absent – Hrenko, Levesque

2. Approval of the March 18, 2026 Meeting Minutes, refer to attachment A.
 o Motion to approve with Minutes with revisions to Section 4.A.1.2 with corrected spelling
 of Isabel Catherine Kelley (Zagaria Buckley), Second (Berke), All approved by a show of
 hands.

3. Staff Communication (4:05pm) - No public comment will be taken
 A. Public Art Program
 Presenter: Sean King
 1. Public art fund, refer to attachment B.
 2. Collection updates – The conservation assessment work continues by Tuckerbrook


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 Conservation LLC
 a. Jewel Box bus shelter, refer to attachment C. City Staff has prepared a memo to
 outline an analysis, fiscal impact, and major findings for the Committee’s
 consideration.
 o Committee shared concerns over recent vandalism, and request for Staff to coordinate
 cost estimates associated with a potential relocation in advance of a future meeting.
 Committee request for Staff to coordinate with artist team regarding possible options
 for relocation.

 b. Union Station mural – The City will begin discussions regarding next steps to envision
 the future of Portland Expo during its Housing & Economic Development Committee
 meeting on April 21, 2026.

 B. Encumbrances for new acquisitions of public art: No updates
 Presenter: Sean King
4. Major Charles J. Loring Memorial Repair (4:10pm), refer to Attachment D – Public comment will be
 taken
 A. Action Item: The Committee will review and consider recommending that repairs proceed.
 o Committee request additional traffic calming measures, and a request for a Committee
 member to be involved in City Staff coordination meeting. City Staff typically
 communicates outcomes of internal City Staff meetings to the Committee.
 o Committee shared concerns for the cost of repairs from the public art fund when a
 responsible party insurance is not obtained. Committee request that Staff evaluate City-
 wide insurance procedures and coverage for a future meeting discussion.
 o Motion to approve $3,000 from public art fund towards repair of Loring Memorial
 (Dennehy), Second (Berke), All approved by a roll call vote (8-0).


5. Adoption of the FY26 Annual Report & FY27 Proposed Budget (4:20pm), refer to Attachment E –
 Public comment will be taken
 A. Action Item: The Portland Public Art Committee is responsible for developing and presenting an
 Annual Public Art Plan to the City Council, including recommendations for the use of allocated
 funding, program administration, conservation of the collection, and initiation of new projects.
 The Committee will review and consider adoption of the plan for forwarding to the City Council
 for acceptance.
 o Committee members shared updates for a City Council amendment to restore allocated
 public art funds as written in the City’s Land Use Code, Article 20 Public Art Program.
 o Committee members shared concerns over Section IX. Proposed Budget FY27 text for
 the annual appropriation. Motion for an amendment to the language in Paragraph IX. to
 strike text “the annual appropriation shall be .5% if the total annual CIP” from the
 Annual Plan (Whipple). No second to the amendment – Amendment fails.
 o Motion to recommend the Annual Plan as written (Wilson), Second (Berke). All
 approved by a roll call vote (8-0)
6. Subcommittee Reports (4:30pm) - No public comment will be taken
 A. Governance/Board Development (Zagaria Buckley, Dennehy)
 1. Committee chair updates. Vice-chair shared that there is an open position (vacant seat)
 for the Committee, and there are several term expirations for current Committee
 members.



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 B. Acquisitions Subcommittee (Cole, Hrenko, Zagaria, Levesque)
 1. Subcommittee member updates. Committee members provided updates on the
 proposed gift of public art for the Italian heritage monument.

 C. Communications Subcommittee (Motter, Berke, Whipple)
 1. Subcommittee members to share updates. Committee members discussed potential
 social media posts for the Italian heritage monument, illustrations will be shared at a
 future meeting. Promotion material to join the Committee for printing or social media.

 D. Collection Management Subcommittee (Dennehy, Berke, Zagaria Buckley)
 1. Subcommittee member updates
 2. Conservation assessment FY26 -

7. Project Reports (4:45 pm) – No public comment will be taken
 A. Public art acquisition selection committee at Portland Harbor Common (Dennehy, Cole,
 Levesque & Zagaria)
 1. Selection subcommittee updates –
 o Selection Panel chair Dennehy introduced the art finalist interviews on May 20,
 2026 meeting. Staff received a request from one of the finalist before the question
 deadline to host a site visit, Committee members recommend that Staff coordinate
 this request for a site visit for all three art finalists.
 o Committee member request a social media post ahead of the May 20, 2026
 selection panel meeting and other potential newspaper media outlets

8. Other Business

9. Meeting adjourns (5:17pm)




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FY26 - Public Art Fund (July 2025-June 2026)
TOTAL PPAC Balance
 A Total Balance (includes FY26) $ 400,715.45
 B Total Encumbrances $ 202,172.00
 C Total Approved budget expenditures $ 166,000.00
 Remaining Balance $ 32,543.45

Remaining Encumbrances from approved budget plans
 Activity Description Budget
 A Congress Square Public Art New Commission - Sarah Sze artist $ 176,000.00
 B Bramhall Square Artwork New Commission - Chris Miller artist $ 26,172.00
 Total Encumbered $ 202,172.00

Approved budget from FY25
 Activity Description Budget
 New Commission (Portland Harbor Commons Park)
 C Portland Harbor Common Park from FY25 Unspent Funds $ 140,000.00
 D Conservation assessment Funds approved for conservation assessment $ 12,000.00
 Total Expeditures $ 152,000.00

F26 - Proposed Budget Breakdown
 Activity Description Proposed FY26 Budget Current Budget Balance

 To cover the five-year Collection conservation
 assessment, lighting assessment and complete
 Conservation and Maintenance conservation projects identified as highest priority $ 10,000 $ 10,000.00
 To cover repairs, theft, relocation, Community Art
 Contingency Fund grant, plaque purchase, etc. $ 5,000 $ (6,505.60)

 Community Artwork grants To contribute to a community artwork project(s) $ 5,000 $ 5,000.00
 New public artwork acquisitions (Portland Harbor
 New Artwork Commons Park + Artists Stipend) $ 30,000 $ 16,000.00
 Total FY26 Budget $ 50,000 $ 24,494.40




 FY26 Expenses Funding Source Total (PAID) Project Notes
 CBE Contingency $ 3,560.00 Lights and conduit installation at Rustle Dyptich
 Port City Glass Contingency $ 3,505.60 Emergency replacement of Jewel Box glass (qt 4)
 Portland Glass Contingency $ 1,440.00 Broken glass at Jewel Box, qt1
 Maine Stone Scape Contingency $ 3,000.00 Loring Memorial repair for struck granite column
 Gabriel Frey New artwork $ 1,000.00 Artist stipend - Portland Harbor Common
 Isabel Catherine Kelley New artwork $ 1,000.00 Artist stipend - Portland Harbor Common
 Celeste Roberge New artwork $ 1,000.00 Artist stipend - Portland Harbor Common

 Subtotal Expenses $ 14,505.60




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City of Portland | Planning & Urban Development Dept.
Sean King, Urban Designer



To: Portland Public Art Committee
 Kat Zagaria Buckley, Chair



MEETING DATE
June 17, 2026

AGENDA ITEM
Agenda Item - Portland Harbor Commons Selection Panel Recommendation

PURPOSE
To present the Artist/Artwork Selection Panel’s recommendation for artist/artwork selection at
Portland Harbor Common.

COMMITTEE WORK PLAN/GOAL ALIGNMENT
The Public Art Committee is tasked to commission or acquire works of public art that seek to
enhance and enrich the lives of the City’s residents, visitors, and employees by incorporating the
visual arts into public spaces as outlined under the City’s Land Use Code, Chapter 14, Article 20.2.

The commissioning of a new public artwork for installation at Portland Harbor Commons and
inclusion in the City’s public art collection was identiﬁed as a priority in the Public Art
Committee’s Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Report and Fiscal Year 2026 Annual Budget Plan, approved
by the City Council on October 6, 2025 (Order 59-25/26).

BACKGROUND
City Council passed order 59-25/26 to accept the Public Art Committee’s 2025 Annual Report and
Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Plan with a recommendation to commission a new public artwork at
Portland Harbor Commons. The Artist/Artwork Selection panel consisted of ﬁve members:
Sharon Dennehy (Chair & Neighborhood representative), Nate Frazee (Project Manager in Parks,
Recreation, Facilities Department), Kat Zagaria Buckley (Portland Public Art Committee
representative), Phoebe Cole (Visual arts professional) & Justin Levesque (Visual arts professional)

The RFP was posted on December 22, 2026 and closed on February 11, 2026. Ninety-seven
submissions were submitted. During the Public Art Committee meeting on March 18, 2026, the
Selection Panel presented their recommendation of ﬁnalists to develop artwork concepts for
Round 2 based on the criteria outlined in the public art design brief. The three ﬁnalists selected
were Gabriel Frey, Isabel Catherine Kelley, and Celeste Roberge. The Selection Panel Chair and City
Staff coordinated with the three ﬁnalists in preparation for the Selection Panel public meeting
held on May 20, 2026, wherein the three ﬁnalists presented their individual public artwork
proposals. Public comment was accepted following each artist’s individual presentation.




 1

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During the Selection Panel public meeting held on May 20, 2026, the Selection Panel deliberated
and scored each ﬁnalist using a scoring rubric based on the Public Art Guidelines.

The Selection Panel awarded Gabriel Frey the highest score of 214, identifying his proposal as the
most appropriate for the site. The Panel noted that the proposed work would provide a strong
sculptural presence and serve as a focal point within the park. The depiction of a Wabanaki spear
ﬁsherman was recognized as a meaningful representation of the site’s cultural heritage, while
also reﬂecting Portland’s historic working waterfront.

The Selection Panel found that the artist clearly articulated a strong conceptual connection
between the artwork and the site. Panelists also acknowledged the signiﬁcance of the proposal as
one of the ﬁrst Indigenous artworks to be included in the City’s public art collection, and noted its
alignment with the proposed renaming of the park.

Celeste Roberge received a score of 195, and Isabel Catherine Kelley received a score of 185.

FISCAL IMPACT
The Public Art Committee’s 2025 Annual Report and Fiscal Year 2026 Budget allocated $154,000
towards the new public art commission at Portland Harbor Common, of which $1,000 was
reserved as an artist stipend for each ﬁnalist. Gabriel Frey included a total cost estimate for the
proposal of $150,000.

CONCLUSION(S)
The Public Art Committee is requested to review and consider a formal vote to commission
Gabriel Frey for a new public artwork at Portland Harbor Common based upon the Selection
Panel’s recommendation from the May 20, 2026 public meeting. Following a Committee ﬁnal
vote, the selected artist will receive notiﬁcation and City Staff will facilitate the execution of the
contract.

RECOMMENDED MOTION
The Public Art Committee recommends approval and acceptance of the Selection Panel’s
recommendation to commission Gabriel Frey for the new public art installation at Portland
Harbor Commons.

PRIOR COMMITTEE REVIEW
The Public Art Committee reviewed the Selection Panel’s recommendations regarding the Round
1 artist submissions and the selection of three ﬁnalists at its March 18, 2026 meeting.

PREPARED BY

Sharon Dennehy Sean King
Chair of Selection Panel Urban Designer
 Planning & Urban Development




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ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A - Gabriel Frey submission to Selection Panel
Attachment B - Selection panel scoring rubric
Attachment C - Public Comment




 3

 Page 9
 Gabriel Frey


 Gabriel Frey - Portland Harbor Common Public Art Commission

 Project Description

 It is an honor to propose “Amewin”, a bronze sculpture of a Wabanaki spear sherman,
 as a nalist for the Portland Harbor Common commission. This work comes from a
 teaching I grew up with: If we never take the rst sh, we will never take the last. The
 sherman sees the rst sh of the season but does not take it. His body is ready, but still.
 This moment carries responsibility, patience, and a way of being in relationship with the
 natural world.

 The gure stands in quiet anticipation at the edge of land and water, holding a traditional
 shing spear. He is not shown in the act of striking, but in a moment of restraint. For me,
 this gure is not just a person. He is a presence. He holds knowledge about care,
 balance, and continuity. I want the work to feel grounded and steady; something that
 meets people where they are, gives them pause, and gives them space.

 This site matters. Portland Harbor sits on Wabanaki homelands, and for millennia these
 waters have been places of gathering and sustenance. I see this sculpture as a way to
 bring that presence forward in a public space where it has historically been largely
 absent.

 The sculpture will sit at the end of India Street. It will be visible from the thoroughfare, the
 park, and the water. I am thinking about how it looks from a distance and how it feels
 when you are standing close to it.

 Materials


 The gure and base will be cast in bronze. I am choosing bronze because it holds up in a
 coastal environment and will last over time. It also carries weight and conveys
 permanence

 The surface will have a natural patina. I am not planning to add color. Variation will come
 through the patina, which changes over time with light and weather.




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 Fabrication Method

 I will work with New England Castings to fabricate the sculpture using a mix of digital and
 traditional casting.

 The process includes:

 • Carving the clay maquette
 • Digitally scanning the maquette
 • Scaling the gure from ½ scale to full scale
 • 3D printing casting patterns
 • Casting sections in bronze
 • Welding and assembling
 • Chasing and re ning the surface
 • Applying nishes

 I have experience working at scale with bronze, clay, and copper through my work at
 Tekαkαpimək Contact Station and in my own practice. I will work closely with the foundry,
 calling on their in-depth expertise in the medium, to ensure the piece is well-made and
 built to last.

 Site, Foundation, and Installation

 The sculpture will be located within the circular site at the park entrance. I understand
 the space is approximately a 10-foot radius and needs to allow people to move around
 the focal point.

 I am designing the work so it can be seen from all sides. It does not have a single front. It
 will respond to the street, the water, and the way people move through the space.

 If selected, I will work with the City, the landscape architect, and structural engineers to
 develop the foundation. I understand there are limits with soil and excavation, and I will
 design and execute with that in mind. Installation will be coordinated with the City’s
 construction timeline.

 Maintenance

 Bronze is a stable material for outdoor work, and the sculpture will last for decades with
 basic care.




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Maintenance will include:

  • Periodic inspection
  • Cleaning as needed
  • Reapplying protective coating over time
  • Checking connections at the base

The work will not include fragile elements or materials that require special upkeep.

Lighting

I am designing the sculpture to work with natural and ambient light. The bronze surface
highlights will shift throughout the day and across seasons.

If needed, low-level ground lighting could be added to improve night-time visibility. That
would be coordinated with the City as an additional element.

Interpretive Signage

I understand there will be a standard City plaque.

I would also like to include a short interpretive text or a QR code that gives more context.
This would explain the teaching behind the work and its connection to Wabanaki values
of sustainability and relationship with the land and sea.

I want the work to stand on its own while also giving people a way to go deeper if they
choose.

Budget

I am proposing a total project budget of $150,000.

  • Artist fee and design: $25,000
  • Digital development and scanning: $25,000–$30,000
  • Bronze casting and fabrication: $50,000–$55,000
  • Chasing and patina: $10,000
  • Engineering and coordination: $7,500
  • Transportation and installation: $7,500
  • Documentation and renderings: $8,000
  • Signage: $2,500
  • Contingency: remaining balance

This is based on current estimates and will be re ned as the design is nalized.




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Timeline

I understand that the City is aiming for installation in November 2026. This is an
ambitious timeline, and I am prepared to work toward it.

To meet this schedule, the project will need to move forward without delay after
selection. Based on my conversations with New England Castings, the foundry will
require a 50% deposit at the start of production to secure the schedule and begin
fabrication. The estimated production time is 3–4 months under normal conditions.

To stay on track:

  • June 2026: Selection and contract
  • July – August 2026: Re ne the design, maquette, and coordinate with engineers
 on the foundation and placement
  • September – November/December 2026: Fabrication and coordination
  • December 2026: Installation

Any delays in contracting, deposit, engineering, or approvals will directly impact this
schedule.

I will stay in close communication with the City and the fabrication team to keep things
moving while ensuring the work is done carefully and correctly.

Closing

Again, I am honored to be included among the outstanding group of artists under
consideration. I am proud to represent my tribe and my fellow Wabanaki through this
work. “Amewin” carries teachings passed down over generations. He speaks of
responsibility, restraint, and being in relationship with the natural world.

There is both history and forethought in all aspects of Portland Harbor Common, and I
take seriously what it means to be part of the city’s 21st-century outlook. This is a
permanent piece. It will live beyond us. People will come across it over time, walking
through the park, coming from the water, moving through the city, and it will become part
of how this place is experienced.

I want to contribute something that belongs here, something that holds its ground and
continues to carry meaning over time.




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April 29, 2026



RE: Portland Harbor Common Public Art Commission



To Whom It May Concern,



I am writing in support of Gabriel Frey’s public art proposal for the Portland Harbor Common. As
Executive Director of the Maine Arts Commission, I had the privilege of recognizing Gabriel’s
work and artistic contributions by selecting him for the Maine Craft Artist Award in 2025. He is
an artist of rare depth and integrity whose work carries technical mastery and deep cultural
connection.

Gabriel’s proposed sculpture of a Wabanaki spearfisherman, poised quietly at the edge of land
and sea, is a powerful and timely vision for this site. The figure he describes is a fisherman, a
witness, and a teacher. Grounded in Wabanaki saying, “If we never take the first fish, we will
never take the last,” the work speaks to patience, responsibility, and a reverent relationship with
the natural world that feels especially appropriate. It is a gesture of respect and stewardship that
will resonate with a wide public.

Gabriel’s practice is centered in a profound relationship to place and material. As a
Passamaquoddy artist trained within a long tradition of black ash basketmakers, he brings
extraordinary skill and attention to everything he creates. His recent work in bronze and
large-scale installation, including his remarkable contributions to Tekαkαpimək at Katahdin
Woods and Waters National Monument, shows his ability to carry Wabanaki design and
knowledge into new forms. He knows how to create large-scale work, collaborate effectively,
and design pieces that belong in the public realm.

Gabriel is a cultural leader and teacher. His work extends beyond the studio into the
community, where he creates opportunities for shared learning between Native and non-Native
audiences. He approaches this work with generosity and friendly openness, inviting people in
and remaining grounded in the values and traditions that shape his practice. His philosophy,
practice, and character are essential ingredients for a public project like this. The proposed
sculpture is naturally sited in the landscape, providing the public with a glimpse into the past,
present, and future of this place.



 2



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Portland Harbor Common sits on Wabanaki homelands, yet Indigenous presence is often
missing from our public spaces. Gabriel’s proposal helps address that absence with clarity
and thoughtful consideration. His spearfisherman affirms continuity, dignity, respect, and
belonging.

Gabriel is ideally suited for this opportunity because of his exceptional craftsmanship, his
commitment to cultural stewardship, his generosity of spirit, and his clear artistic vision. He is
an exemplary artist and representative of this place we now call Maine. I offer my strong
endorsement of his proposal and believe it will be a meaningful and lasting addition to
Portland’s public landscape.

Sincerely,




Amy Hausmann

Executive Director

Maine Arts Commission




 Page 15
May 1, 2026

Letter of Support for Gabriel Frey

Dear Members of the Selection Committee,

I am writing in strong support of Gabriel Frey and his proposal for the Portland
Harbor Common Public Art Commission. I have had the privilege of knowing
Gabriel and his work over a number of years, and I can speak with confidence to
both the depth of his artistic practice and his ability to contribute meaningfully to
projects of civic and cultural significance.

I first met Gabriel approximately eight years ago through a deeply formative
experience. We spent time together in the woods harvesting brown ash and
working step by step through the process of making a pack basket. That experience
offered a rare and direct understanding of Gabriel’s practice, one rooted in patience,
discipline, and a profound relationship to land, material, and cultural knowledge. It
also revealed his generosity as a teacher and his ability to bring others into that
process with clarity and intention. That foundation continues to inform all aspects of
his work today.

In the years since, I have had the opportunity to work alongside Gabriel on the
Tekαkαpimək Contact Station at Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument, a
complex and highly visible public project developed in collaboration with Wabanaki
partners, artists, and institutions. Gabriel has been instrumental in this work. He has
contributed not only as an artist but as a creative collaborator who helps shape
ideas, advance concepts, and carry them through to completion. His involvement
has been critical to the realization of several of the visitor center’s most important
interior and exterior elements. He brings a rare combination of strong vision,
cultural integrity, and follow-through, qualities essential to the success of any
public-facing project.

From my perspective, as someone deeply engaged in civic initiatives and a long-
standing supporter of the arts, Gabriel’s proposal represents exactly the kind of
work public art should advance. Portland is a city with a rich and layered history, yet
there remains a notable absence of a visible Wabanaki presence in its public
landscape. Gabriel’s proposed sculpture directly and thoughtfully addresses that
absence. It aligns closely with the values he outlines in his letter of interest, offering
not only a powerful visual presence but a deeper framework of meaning grounded
in reciprocity, restraint, and long-term stewardship.

I also want to address what I imagine may be questions from the committee
regarding scale, execution, and delivery. In my experience, Gabriel approaches his
work with a clear understanding that projects of this nature are inherently
collaborative. He works with a network of skilled fabricators, advisors, and partners,
and he engages the right expertise to ensure successful outcomes. Public art is
never the work of a single individual, and Gabriel understands how to lead within




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that structure, bringing together the appropriate team(s) while maintaining the
integrity of the vision.

Just as importantly, he follows through. I have seen him take on complex ideas and
carry them to completion with care, discipline, and accountability. There is no
question in my mind that he has both the commitment and the support structure
needed to realize a project of this scale.

Gabriel’s proposal for Portland Harbor Common is both artistically compelling and
civically important. It offers an opportunity to create a work that reflects a fuller and
more accurate story of place; one that acknowledges Wabanaki presence not as
history alone, but as an ongoing and vital part of Maine’s cultural landscape. His
sculpture would not only enhance the site visually but also invite reflection, learning,
and connection for all who encounter it.

I strongly encourage your support of Gabriel Frey’s application.

Sincerely,



Lucas St. Clair




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Please use the following to guide our discussion. Commentary on artwork should focus on the following aspects. See P2 for Detailed explanations pulled from the guidelines.
From the Guidelines for Public Art


Portland Harbor Common Park Artist Selection – Artist Rubric
 ● Below is listed each artist/designer who submitted qualifications and scored highest on the subcommittee’s review
 ● Rate each artist according to how well you think their work meets the criteria. 0 - 5 (0 = not at all, 5 = very well)




 Artwork Artist


 Elements of Style and
 Quality Media Conservation Budget Cooperation Communication Experience Measurements References
 Artist design nature

 Gabriel
 Frey


 Isabel
 Catherine
 Kelley


 Celeste
 Roberge




 Page 22
4. Artist Artwork Selection Criteria

 The selection of Artists and/or Artwork for all percent for art projects will be based on the
 following criteria:

 A. Artwork

 a1. Quality: The work should be of the highest standard with regard to workmanship,
 materials, assembly, content, location on the site, and appropriateness in theme and
 character as determined by the Public Art Committee.

 a2. Elements of Design: The Artist/Artwork Selection Panel and the Public Art
 Committee will take into account the fact that, as differentiated from works in a
 museum context, art in public spaces may function as focal points, modifiers, definers
 of public spaces and/or creates identity within the public realm.

 a3. Style and Nature: Work of any style or nature which is appropriate for the public art
 collection and which is responsive in scale, material, form, and content with their
 surroundings will be considered. Works may be participatory in nature.

 a4. Media: All forms allowed by ordinance may be considered.

 a5. Conservation: Due consideration shall be given to structural and surface soundness
 and to performance in terms of relative proof against theft, vandalism, weathering, or
 excessive maintenance or repair costs.

 a6. Project budget as specified in the Request for Proposals. This budget shall include at
 least the following items:
 ● All costs related to the acquisition, fabrication and installation of the
 piece
 ● Project Manager
 ● Traffic Management and Police Detail
 ● Street Closures
 ● Structural Engineer
 ● Conservation Evaluation
 ● Landscape Architect
 ● Plant Materials
 ● Signage – temporary
 ● Signage – permanent (in accordance with City specifications)
 ● Fencing – temporary
 ● Mitigation of any utility problems identified by Digsafe.
 ● Contingency of 5% of total project cost.
 Other issues that may be identified during planning, review and
 implementation.




 Page 23
B. Artists

 b1. Cooperation: The demonstrated ability of the artist to work closely and
 cooperatively with the Committee, staff, and community.

 b2. Communication: The artist must have the ability to clearly communicate concepts
 both visually and through clearly written materials. In addition the ability to develop
 specific drawings of the artwork placed at the site will be required. (See Requirements for
 Design Documentation and Project Records)

 b3. Experience. The artist and project team is required to demonstrate the ability to
 create and execute a public art project within the timeframe and budget.

 b4. Measurements. The artist is responsible for all measurements of the site, to be
 taken in the field. Failure to do so, or errors, shall be the responsibility of the artist, and
 be corrected at the artist’s expense.

 b5. References. The artist must provide at least three references of persons who can
 speak to the artist’s demonstrated ability to implement art in the public realm.




 Page 24
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 Page 26
6/8/26, 2:49 PM City of Portland Mail - Critical Curatorial and Historical Concerns regarding Portland Harbor Commons Site Proposal
 PC 2

 Kevin Kraft <kkraft@portlandmaine.gov>



  Critical Curatorial and Historical Concerns regarding Portland Harbor Commons Site
  Proposal
  S. Nick Zaccaro <snzaccaro@gmail.com> Sun, May 17, 2026 at 12:23 PM
  To: kat.z.buckley@maine.edu, "Desiree Kelly (City of Portland Public Art Committee)" <publicart@portlandmaine.gov>

 Dear Ms. Buckley and members of the Portland Public Art Committee,

 Ahead of the May 20 selection panel, please consider a severe historical conflict regarding the proposed Native American
 statue for the Portland Harbor Commons site:

 The site sits opposite the 1936 plaque marking where 200 settlers were killed and their bodies left exposed on the ground
 for two years. Placing a lunging spear here will inevitably be read as an aggressive threat, reinforcing harmful historical
 tropes.

 Fort Loyal also imprisoned some Native Americans, meaning this ground carries the double trauma of both a massacre
 and captivity. This design proposal completely sanitizes this history. The committee should send this proposal back to the
 artist with this full historical context, perhaps recommending a figure holding a wampum belt to signify Wabanaki
 diplomacy and sovereignty instead.

 Sincerely,

 S. Nick Zaccaro
 64 Whitney Ave #3
 Portland




https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ik=927922cc00&view=pt&search=all&permmsgid=msg-f:1865453432138092910&simpl=msg-f:1865453432138092910 1/2
 Page 27
6/8/26, 2:49 PM City of Portland Mail - Critical Curatorial and Historical Concerns regarding Portland Harbor Commons Site Proposal




https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ik=927922cc00&view=pt&search=all&permmsgid=msg-f:1865453432138092910&simpl=msg-f:1865453432138092910 2/2
 Page 28
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 Page 32
City of Portland | Planning & Urban Development Dept.
Sean King, Urban Designer



To: Portland Public Art Committee
 Kat Zagaria Buckley, Chair



MEETING DATE
June 17, 2026

AGENDA ITEM
Agenda Item - Jewel Box bus shelter

PURPOSE
To initiate the deaccessioning review process for the potential removal or relocation of the Jewel
Box bus shelter located at the intersection of Congress Street and Center Street, and to provide the
Committee with an update following its April 15, 2026 meeting.

BACKGROUND/PROCESS
The Guidelines for the Public Art Ordinance, establish procedures for reviewing the relocation or
removal of artworks from the Public Art Collection. Section VIII, Relocation of Public Art, outlines
the process for considering the relocation of an existing artwork, while Section IX, Deaccessioning
Policy, establishes the process for considering the removal of an artwork from the collection. The
deaccessioning guidelines recognize that, over time, circumstances may arise that warrant the
removal of artwork from the collection. Reasons for deaccessioning may include, but are not
limited to, situations where an artwork has been damaged beyond reasonable repair, is no longer
considered appropriate, or requires removal due to redevelopment or changes in the direction and
goals of the Public Art Collection.

Process
The Public Art Committee shall review any proposed deaccessioning of public art, and shall
forward a recommendation to the Council for action. After receiving the recommendation from
the Committee, the Council, by majority vote, can order the deaccessioning of the artwork.

To initiate the deaccessioning process, consideration of the artwork for deaccessioning shall be
included in the Public Art Committee’s Annual Plan. The Committee may consider the
deaccessioning of an artwork when it determines that the artwork meets one or more of the
following criteria:
 ●​ The artwork has been determined to be of inferior quality relative to the quality of other works
 in the collection.
 ●​ The artwork has been determined to be incompatible with the intent of the collection
 ●​ The artwork has been damaged or has deteriorated to the point where restoration is impractical
 or unfeasible, or the cost of restoration is excessive in relation to the appraised value of the
 artwork.
 ●​ The artwork endangers public safety.


 1

 Page 33
 ●​ Significant changes in the use, character or actual design of the site require a re-evaluation of
 the relationship of the artwork to the site.
 ●​ The work is not or is rarely on display.
 ●​ The artwork requires excessive maintenance or has faults of design or workmanship, and the
 city cannot properly maintain the artwork.

Staff recommends that the artwork be considered for deaccessioning based on the following
applicable criteria:
 ●​ The artwork has been damaged or has deteriorated to the point where restoration is impractical
 or unfeasible, or the cost of restoration is excessive in relation to the appraised value of the
 artwork.
 ●​ The artwork requires excessive maintenance or has faults of design or workmanship, and the
 city cannot properly maintain the artwork.
 ●​ The artwork endangers public safety.




Figure 1: Jewel Box bus shelter

To initiate the relocation process, consideration of the artwork for relocation shall also be
included in the Public Art Committee’s Annual Plan. The Committee may consider the relocation
of an artwork when it determines that the artwork meets one or more of the following criteria:
 ●​ The current location of artwork limits public accessibility
 ●​ The condition or security of the artwork cannot be reasonably guaranteed in its present location.
 ●​ Significant changes in use, character or actual design of the site require a re-evaluation of the
 relationship of the artwork to the site.
 ●​ Re-development of a public space offers a location that may be a more appropriate site.

Staff recommends that the artwork be considered for relocation based on the following applicable
criteria:
 ●​ The condition or security of the artwork cannot be reasonably guaranteed in its present location.

Background
In 2003, the Portland Public Art Committee commissioned artists Laura Haddad and Tom Drugan
to design, fabricate, and install a new public artwork entitled Jewel Box. The installation was



 2

 Page 34
completed in 2004 and consists of cast iron panels, steel supports, tempered glass panels, wooden
seating, and an aluminum roof mounted on an elevated concrete base.

The Jewel Box replaced an earlier bus shelter that measured approximately 8 feet by 20 feet, was
enclosed on three sides, and stood approximately 12 feet tall. According to the original Request for
Qualifications, the prior shelter was constructed of painted black steel with acrylic glazing;
colored elements in the glazing were later added anonymously.




Figure 2: Former bus shelter prior to 2004 Jewel Box installation

At the April 15, 2026 Public Art Committee meeting, City staff presented options for consideration
regarding the Jewel Box bus shelter, including potential future evaluation of relocation, repair, or
deaccessioning and removal. This item was introduced for initial discussion due to ongoing
maintenance needs, repeated vandalism, and persistent concerns related to loitering and public
health over several years. Several design characteristics, including a solid roof, enclosed wall
structure, and limited ventilation, have been noted to reduce visibility through the structure and
have been associated with ongoing challenges related to vandalism, loitering, and public health
concerns that the City continues to address.

Staff noted that since 2005, the Public Art Committee has allocated public art funds to support
conservation efforts and address recurring vandalism. A summary of expenditures is provided
below:


 Maintenance description Year Funds used (Public art,
 others)

 Graffiti (Acid) 2005 $465.66 (Police dept replaced
 with insurance)

 Graffiti (Acid) 2006 $931.32 (Police dept replaced)

 Conservation treatment (Protective film, painting, 2016 $4,576 (Public art fund)
 corrosion repair)




 3

 Page 35
 Conservation priority, Part 1 (Corrosion, structural 2019 $17,000 (Public art fund)
 repair, wax coating, glass replacement)

 Conservation priority, Part 2 (Bench, Cast iron 2020 $5,269.88 (Public art fund)
 repair)

 Graffiti (Acid) 2023 - glass replacement, quantity 1 2023 $1,796.29

 Graffiti (Acid) 2024 - glass replacement, quantity 2 2024 $2,023.90

 Graffiti (Acid) 2026 - glass replacement, quantity 4 2026 $3,505.60

 Broken glass 2026 - glass replacement, quantity 1 2026 $1,440.00

 Total expenditures for maintenance and damages $35,611.67
 *Total expenditures spent in FY2026 *($4,945.6)



Following the April 15, 2026, Public Art Committee meeting, City staff contacted the original
artists to inform them of the Committee’s discussion regarding the potential relocation, repair, or
deaccessioning of the Jewel Box bus shelter and to explore the feasibility of each option.

City staff have also been coordinating with Metro to evaluate whether relocation of the Jewel Box
is both feasible and financially viable. As part of this effort, staff have begun identifying potential
relocation sites based on their proximity to transportation hubs and existing transit routes. While
the costs associated with relocation are not yet known, staff have initiated discussions with
Metro and relevant City departments that may have jurisdiction over potential relocation sites to
better understand logistical requirements, constraints, and opportunities. Staff will provide the
Committee with a shortlist of potential relocation sites, estimated costs, and an assessment of the
feasibility and viability of relocation at a future meeting.




 4

 Page 36
Figure 3 - Existing condition photos from May 28, 2026




 5

 Page 37
 Figure 4 - Existing condition photos from May 28, 2026

FISCAL IMPACT
All options would require the use of Public Art Program funds, whether for the removal,
relocation, or continued maintenance and repair of the Jewel Box, including addressing ongoing
vandalism. In addition, the current conservation assessment will identify future maintenance and
conservation needs. Cost estimates associated with these options will be provided once the
assessment is complete.

NEXT STEPS


 6

 Page 38
Staff recommends that the Committee vote to include consideration of the deaccessioning or
relocation of the Jewel Box bus shelter from the Public Art Collection in the Annual Plan, thereby
initiating the formal review process for these options.

By including these options in the upcoming Annual Plan, the Committee, in coordination with
City staff, can determine the best path forward and make a recommendation to the City Council.

COMMITTEE ACTION
Motion:
The Public Art Committee recommends that consideration be given to the deaccessioning or relocation
of the Jewel Box bus shelter from the Public Art Collection as part of the Annual Plan.

PRIOR COMMITTEE REVIEW
April 15, 2026 - The Public Art Committee discussed previous expenditures toward the Jewel Box
and introduced consideration for deaccessioning.

PREPARED BY

Sean King Matt Grooms, AICP
Urban Designer Deputy-Director
Planning & Urban Development Planning & Urban Development


ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A - Public Comment




 7

 Page 39
6/8/26, 2:52 PM City of Portland Mail - Bus Shelter on 400 Block of Congress (at Center)
 PC1

 Kevin Kraft <kkraft@portlandmaine.gov>



  Bus Shelter on 400 Block of Congress (at Center)
  1 message

  Mary Ames <marycarolineames@gmail.com> Thu, Jun 4, 2026 at 10:40 AM
  To: planning@portlandmaine.gov


 Dear Portland Planning Department,

 I am writing as a resident of 15 Brown Street, whose windows overlook the 400 block of Congress Street. My husband
 and I (and our Border Collie dog) live adjacent to this area. We walk past the bus shelter at Congress and Center daily
 and have observed its impact on the neighborhood over a number of years.

 I strongly urge the City to consider removing this bus shelter.

 While I understand that the shelter was originally intended to serve transit riders and provide a public benefit, it has
 increasingly become a focal point for persistent illegal and disruptive activity. Over the past several years, I have
 personally witnessed drug use, suspected drug sales, public urination and defecation, encampments, violence, and other
 behavior that makes the area feel unsafe and unwelcoming.

 The situation has deteriorated to the point where the shelter often no longer serves its intended purpose. Many ordinary
 transit riders appear reluctant to use it, even when waiting for the bus. Instead of functioning as a public amenity, it has
 become a gathering place for activity that negatively affects nearby residents, businesses, visitors, and transit users alike.

 I want to emphasize that I have empathy for individuals experiencing homelessness and recognize that Portland faces
 difficult challenges related to housing, addiction, and mental health. However, the bus shelter is not addressing those
 challenges, nor is it serving the broader public interest. In its current form, it contributes to conditions that discourage
 people from walking along the block, patronizing local businesses, or spending time in the area.

 As someone who lives directly adjacent to this location and experiences its effects every day, I respectfully ask the City to
 remove the shelter and explore alternative approaches that better serve transit riders while improving public safety,
 cleanliness, and quality of life for residents and businesses.

 Thank you for your consideration of this request.

 Sincerely,

 Mary Ames
 15 Brown Street
 Portland, ME


 --
 ________________

 Mary Caroline Ames

 --
 Your inquiry has been received by the City of Portland Planning and Urban Development Department. A staff member
 from the Department will be in touch with you, with a response, as soon as possible.

 Thank you.

 --

 Planning and Urban Development Department
 City Hall, 389 Congress Street, 4th Floor
 Portland, Maine 04101
 (207) 874-8719 (T)
 (207) 756-8258 (F)

https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ik=927922cc00&view=pt&search=all&permthid=thread-f:1867077745066860322&simpl=msg-f:1867077745066860322 1/2
 Page 40
6/8/26, 2:52 PM City of Portland Mail - Bus Shelter on the 400 Block of Congress (at Center)

 PC2
 Kevin Kraft <kkraft@portlandmaine.gov>



  Bus Shelter on the 400 Block of Congress (at Center)
  2 messages

  Christian Saucedo <christianmsaucedo@gmail.com> Sun, May 31, 2026 at 6:41 PM
  To: planning@portlandmaine.gov
  Cc: David Jopp <david.j.jopp@googlemail.com>, "M. Ames" <marycarolineames@gmail.com>


 Dear Portland Planning Department,

 I am writing as a resident of 15 Brown Street, whose windows overlook the 400 block of Congress Street. Because I live
 adjacent to this area, I walk past the bus shelter at Congress and Center daily and have observed its impact on the
 neighborhood over a number of years.

 I strongly urge the City to consider removing this bus shelter.

 While I understand that the shelter was originally intended to serve transit riders and provide a public benefit, it has
 increasingly become a focal point for persistent illegal and disruptive activity. Over the past several years, I have
 personally witnessed drug use, suspected drug sales, public urination and defecation, encampments, violence, and other
 behavior that makes the area feel unsafe and unwelcoming.

 The situation has deteriorated to the point where the shelter often no longer serves its intended purpose. Many ordinary
 transit riders appear reluctant to use it, even when waiting for the bus. Instead of functioning as a public amenity, it has
 become a gathering place for activity that negatively affects nearby residents, businesses, visitors, and transit users alike.

 I want to emphasize that I have empathy for individuals experiencing homelessness and recognize that Portland faces
 difficult challenges related to housing, addiction, and mental health. However, the bus shelter is not addressing those
 challenges, nor is it serving the broader public interest. In its current form, it contributes to conditions that discourage
 people from walking along the block, patronizing local businesses, or spending time in the area.

 As someone who lives directly adjacent to this location and experiences its effects every day, I respectfully ask the City to
 remove the shelter and explore alternative approaches that better serve transit riders while improving public safety,
 cleanliness, and quality of life for residents and businesses.

 Thank you for your consideration of this request.

 Sincerely,

 Christian Saucedo
 15 Brown Street
 Portland, ME

 --
 Your inquiry has been received by the City of Portland Planning and Urban Development Department. A staff member
 from the Department will be in touch with you, with a response, as soon as possible.

 Thank you.

 --

 Planning and Urban Development Department
 City Hall, 389 Congress Street, 4th Floor
 Portland, Maine 04101
 (207) 874-8719 (T)
 (207) 756-8258 (F)
 planning@portlandmaine.gov
 www.portlandmaine.gov
 Office Hours are Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.



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6/8/26, 2:52 PM City of Portland Mail - Bus Stop on Congress St

 PC3
 Kevin Kraft <kkraft@portlandmaine.gov>



  Bus Stop on Congress St
  David Jopp <admin@escaperoomme.com> Mon, Jun 1, 2026 at 10:38 AM
  To: planning@portlandmaine.gov


 Dear Portland Planning Department,

 I am writing as the owner of The Escape Room on Congress Street. I work here, and walk past the bus shelter at
 Congress and Center daily and have observed its impact on the neighborhood over a number of years.

 I strongly urge the City to consider removing this bus shelter.

 While I understand that the shelter was originally intended to serve transit riders and provide a public benefit, it has
 increasingly become a focal point for persistent illegal and disruptive activity. Over the past several years, I have
 personally witnessed drug use, suspected drug sales, public urination and defecation, encampments, violence, and other
 behavior that makes the area feel unsafe and unwelcoming.

 The situation has deteriorated to the point where the shelter often no longer serves its intended purpose. Many ordinary
 transit riders appear reluctant to use it, even when waiting for the bus. Instead of functioning as a public amenity, it has
 become a gathering place for activity that negatively affects nearby residents, businesses, visitors, and transit users alike.

 I want to emphasize that I have empathy for individuals experiencing homelessness and recognize that Portland faces
 difficult challenges related to housing, addiction, and mental health. However, the bus shelter is not addressing those
 challenges, nor is it serving the broader public interest. In its current form, it contributes to conditions that discourage
 people from walking along the block, patronizing local businesses, or spending time in the area.

 As someone who lives directly adjacent to this location and experiences its effects every day, I respectfully ask the City to
 remove the shelter and explore alternative approaches that better serve transit riders while improving public safety,
 cleanliness, and quality of life for residents and businesses.

 Thank you for your consideration of this request.

 Sincerely,

 Christian Saucedo
 15 Brown Street
 Portland, ME

 --
 Your inquiry has been received by the City of Portland Planning and Urban Development Department. A staff member
 from the Department will be in touch with you, with a response, as soon as possible.

 Thank you.

 --

 Planning and Urban Development Department
 City Hall, 389 Congress Street, 4th Floor
 Portland, Maine 04101
 (207) 874-8719 (T)
 (207) 756-8258 (F)
 planning@portlandmaine.gov
 www.portlandmaine.gov
 Office Hours are Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.




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City of Portland | Planning & Urban Development Dept.
Sean King, Urban Designer



To: Portland Public Art Committee
 Kat Zagaria Buckley, Chair



MEETING DATE
June 17, 2026

AGENDA ITEM
Agenda Item - FY26 Annual Report & FY27 Proposed Budget

PURPOSE
To provide the Committee with an overview of the City Council amendment to the annual Public
Art allocation made during the FY27 CIP process, which increased the Public Art budget from
$50,000 to $230,000, and to summarize recommended revisions to the Temporary Art
Guidelines, as well as the proposed deaccessioning or relocation of the Jewel Box Bus Shelter, for
incorporation into the FY26 Annual Report and proposed FY27 Budget.

BACKGROUND/PROCESS
Each year, the Committee is responsible for developing an Annual Report and Budget for Council
consideration to help inform and guide the Committee’s work for the coming year. The
Committee previously voted to approve the Annual Plan at its April 15, 2026, meeting; however,
the City Council has made an amendment to the FY27 CIP that resulted in an increase to the
budget from $50,000 to $230,000.

FY27 Budget. On April 13, 2026, the City Council approved the FY27 CIP budget. As part of that
process, an amendment (Attachment A) was adopted to increase funding for both Public Art and
the Land Bank from $50,000 each to $230,000 each, consistent with Public Art Ordinance
language indicating that annual appropriations shall equal 0.5% of the total CIP. As a result of
this amendment, staff is bringing the FY26 Annual Plan and FY27 Budget back to the Committee
for discussion on how to allocate the additional $180,000 in funding for the upcoming fiscal year.

In April, the Committee allocated $50,000 across three categories. The Committee must now
revise the budget to determine how to allocate $230,000 for FY27.


  Table 3 – Proposed budget FY27 (July 1, 2026 – June 31, 2027)
  As proposed in April 2026 by Public Art Committee
 Activity Description Budget

  A Conservation and To support conservation and $0
 maintenance maintenance priorities of the
 Collection.




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  B Contingency fund To cover unplanned minor $5,000
 repairs, theft, replacement, and
 plaque purchases.
  C Community Artwork Grants To contribute to a community $5,000
 artwork project(s).

  D New Artwork Commissions To advance new artwork $40,000
 commissions at Riverton
 Trolley Park and Lyseth Moore
 area trails as outlined in the
 FY25 Annual Plan/FY26 Budget
 Plan.
 Total FY27 Budget $50,000


Temporary Art Guideline Revisions (Attachment B). The Planning & Urban Development
Department oversees the Temporary Art Program, which is governed by adopted guidelines by
the Public Art Committee and City Council. Staff recommends revising the guidelines to reflect
changes in how temporary art proposals involving street painting are reviewed and approved.
The changes (Attachment B) are intended to simplify and streamline the review process by
ensuring that traffic-calming demonstration projects are reviewed exclusively through the
Department of Public Works, Traffic Calming Demonstration Project permit process; that
crosswalk painting proposals may be reviewed and approved administratively by staff on an
annual basis; and that the role and jurisdiction of the Temporary Art Program are clarified for
proposals involving murals or other artistic painting within the public right-of-way. Changes
proposed to the Temporary Art Guidelines or Public Art Committee Guidelines are required to be
incorporated into the Annual Plan and adopted by the City Council. To comply with these
requirements, staff recommends the proposed revisions for inclusion in the Annual Plan.

Jewel Box Bus Shelter Deaccessioning and Relocation. The Guidelines for the Public Art
Ordinance establish procedures for reviewing the relocation or removal of artworks from the
Public Art Collection. Section VIII, Relocation of Public Art, outlines the process for considering the
relocation of an existing artwork, while Section IX, Deaccessioning Policy, establishes the process
for considering removal of an artwork from the collection. To initiate either the deaccessioning
or relocation process, consideration of the artwork must be included in the Public Art
Committee’s Annual Plan. To initiate this process and comply with the guidelines, staff
recommends that consideration of the Jewel Box Bus Shelter be incorporated into the FY27
workplan.

NEXT STEPS
This information is being presented for discussion only. At the July meeting, the Committee will
be asked to vote on a recommendation of the FY26 Annual Plan and FY27 budget for submission
to the City Council Following a vote and recommendation from the Public Art Committee the
item will go to the City Council for approval.

PRIOR COMMITTEE REVIEW


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April 15, 2026 - The Public Art Committee reviewed and approved the FY26 and FY27 budget

PREPARED BY

Sean King Matt Grooms, AICP
Urban Designer Deputy-Director
Planning & Urban Development Planning & Urban Development


ATTACHMENTS​
Attachment A - FY27 CIP Amendment (Order 161-25/26 and Order 162-25/26)
Attachment B - Temporary Art Guidelines - Redlines (June 2026)




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MARK DION (MAYOR) CITY OF PORTLAND SARAH MICHNIEWICZ (1)
PIOUS ALI (A/L) WESLEY PELLETIER (2)
APRIL D. FOURNIER(A/L) IN THE CITY COUNCIL REGINA L. PHILLIPS (3)
BENJAMIN GRANT (A/L) ANNA BULLETT (4)
 KATE SYKES (5)


 SUMMARY OF AMENDMENTS TO ORDER 161-25/26 AND ORDER 162-25/26
 PROPOSED BY COUNCILOR SYKES
 RE: ADDING $360,000 IN FUNDING FOR PUBLIC ART AND THE LAND BANK


 This amendment would increase funding for Public Art and the Land Bank from $50,000 each to
 $230,000 each. Within various sections of City Code, language indicates that the annual appropriation
 for these funds shall be .5% of the total annual CIP. In most recent CIP years, the annual CIP
 appropriation has been limited to $50,000 per year, with staff referring to language within the City’s
 Debt Management Policy supporting their calculation and the upper limit of $50,000 annually.
 However, this policy is operational in nature and has not been approved by City Council, only reviewed
 periodically with Finance Committee. This amendment requests that the appropriations for the Land
 Bank and Public Art fund be increased to an amount more in line with language in the relevant
 ordinances.

 If approved, this would increase the amount of general obligation bonds and funding appropriation
 within the FY27 CIP orders by $360,000 each. The estimated fiscal impact to debt service beginning in
 FY28 is estimated to be approximately $30,000, declining each year over the life of the bonds as
 principal is repaid.


 Appendix A to the FY27 CIP Orders would be amended in both orders as follows:




 #18572846v1


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 CITY OF PORTLAND, MAINE
 PUBLIC ART COMMITTEE
 Guidelines for Temporary Public Art


The City of Portland recognizes the role of public art in contributing to the life of the City and
the well-being of its citizens. By engaging with the surrounding environment, public art enriches
the spirit, values, and poetry of place. Temporary public art adds to the range and impact of
public art, providing a changing array of outdoor installations all year. around. The Portland
Public Art Committee (PPAC) is the umbrella organization for the Temporary Public Art
Guidelines. The guidelines are intended to inform applicants of the process.
A proposal to display a work of art temporarily on City owned property must be approved by a
temporary art review panel established pursuant to these guidelines. Only artists who are 18
years or older shall be eligible to apply. An applicant must adhere to the following application,
installation, and removal process. The review panel has the authority to approve applications,
approve applications subject to conditions, and to reject applications. An installation permit will
be issued by the Department of Planning & Urban Development following approval of an
application by the review panel.
Eligibility
For the purpose of these guidelines temporary public art is defined as physical structures or
combinations of material that may be installed for a maximum of one year, and that can be
removed without lasting damage to the existing site. A request for an extension of up to one
additional year may be considered, although a request for extension may not be considered
at certain sites or public right-of-way.
The appropriateness of subject matter and quality of workmanship are of utmost importance.
Works will only be approved if they are suitable for display to the general public and for the
particular site. Works shall not be displayed for commercial purposes, and shall not be
advertised for sale while on public display. Credit for sponsorship of the temporary installment
may be recognized on approved signage. Artists 18 years and older may apply, with
consideration for school-aged applicants provided a guardian as a primary applicant. Artists must
demonstrate capacity to execute, install and remove proposed pieces.
Site Selection
The City of Portland’s public spaces include historic landscapes, pocket parks, open spaces, and
trails which vary in dimensions, natural elements, and historic character. The placement of
temporary art should respect and enhance the organic character of the site, and must not result in
either physical or aesthetic damage to the landscape. In proposing sites for temporary public art,
applicants should consider the following:

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 ● Placement should be in a public space;
 ● If more than one site is appropriate for a particular installation, it should be identified in
 the application;
 ● Final approval of an installation is contingent upon the appropriateness of the proposed
 site, including adequate visibility;
 ● Artwork shall not interfere with active use of open space by the public;
 ● Cemeteries will not be considered as sites for temporary art installations; and
 ● Certain sites may be subject to additional restrictions as determined by the review
 committee.
Review Panel
A review panel shall include, but need not be limited to:
 ● One City staff designee from the Department of Public Works (DPW);
 ● One designee from the Portland Public Art Committee;
 ● The City of Portland’s Director of Planning & Urban Development or their
 designeeUrban Designer, Temporary Art Coordinator or staff designee from the
 Department of Planning and Urban Development;
 ● A designated artist.
For a given site, the review panel may include additional designees. Additional designees will
be included when the proposed site involves the following conditions:
 ● For proposals involving a park, open space, plaza or other public space under the
 management of the City of Portland’s Parks, Recreation, and Facilities Department, the
 Director or their designee;
 ● For proposals involving an historic landmark, landscape, or district, the panel will include
 a designee from the Historic Preservation Board or City of Portland Historic Preservation
 staff;
 ● For proposals involving a site with an established “friends” organization, or equivalent,
 the review panel will include a designee from that organization;
 ● Additional stakeholders or interested parties may be invited to provide input during the
 review process to be determined in consultation with the relevant councilor(s).
Additional Review Requirements
 Upon the receipt of a temporary art application, the Review Panel shall:


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 1. Schedule a meeting open to the public to obtain public comment prior to rendering a
 decision on the application.
 2. Publish a notice of the meeting on the City’s website at least seven days prior to the date
 of the meeting.
 3. Notify stakeholders such as the applicant, abutters, and neighborhood groups of the
 meeting at least seven days prior to the date of the meeting. Noticing shall be handled by
 City staff and means and methods shall be determined on a case by case basis and may
 include mail, e-mail, City website, and NotifyMe.
Supplemental Guidelines for Temporary Painting within Public Roadways
The City of Portland’s roadways and crosswalks vary in dimensions, materials, and historic
character. The placement of temporary painting within public roadways should shall maintain
visibility of crosswalks and/or all roadway markings, respect and enhance the organic character
of the roadway, and must not result in either physical or aesthetic damage to the roadway. In
proposing roadways for temporary public painting, applicants should consider the following:
 ● City of Portland Department of Public Works has municipal jurisdiction over roadways
 with a posted speed limit of 25 miles-per-hour or less. Roadway paintings shall not be
 allowed on any street with speed limits at or above 30 miles-per-hour.
 ● MaineDOT shall review state roadways as indicated in the City of Portland’s Technical
 Manual Section 1. Transportation Systems and Street Design Standards federal street
 classification (Figure I-26).
 ● Roadway painting shall utilize temporary chalk paint, as recommended by MaineDOT
 and the City of Portland Department of Public Works and shall not be retro-reflective.
 Painting shall completely fade within one year of installation;
 ● Three dimensional (3D) crosswalks and word messaging, and directional signals within
 the crosswalk are not allowed;
 ● Roadway paintings shall not distract drivers or lead to dangerous road conditions, nor
 shall they mask existing unsafe road conditions such as potholes. The condition of the
 roadway or crosswalk shall be adequate, as confirmed by up-to-date pictures provided by
 the applicant. City of Portland Department of Public Works and Planning and Urban
 Development staff may conduct site investigations to prove roadway conditions are
 adequate;
 ● Painting of white crosswalk stripes (known as “keys”) is not allowed;
 ● If more than one roadway or crosswalk is appropriate for a particular installation, it
 should be identified in the application. The Review Panel shall reserve the right to restrict
 the number and location of roadways or crosswalks for any application;




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 ● Each application will require a traffic-control plan that includes a timeline to the
 satisfaction of City of Portland Department of Public Works staff. This timeline shall
 include the date and duration of street closure;
 ● Streets under a Street Moratorium or those that have been paved within one year prior to
 receipt of an application shall not be allowed for painting.
 ● Final approval of an installation is contingent upon the appropriateness of the proposed
 roadway, including adequate visibility;
 ● Roadway painting shall utilize temporary chalk-based paint, as recommended by the
 Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) and the City of Portland Department
 of Public Works, or an alternative paint approved by both agencies. Paint materials shall
 not be retroreflective and shall be designed to fully fade or wear away within one (1) year
 of installation.
 ● Roadway paintings shall not contain content that is harmful to Portland’s diverse
 communities, including content that is harmful on the basis of race, color, religion,
 national origin, age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender
 expression, genetic information, marital or parental status, political association or veteran
 status.
 ● Cemeteries shall will not be considered as roadways for temporary painting;
 ● Roadways with paving patterns including but not limited to: cobblestone, Belgian-block,
 brick, or masonry, will not be considered as roadways for temporary painting;
 ● Certain roadways may be subject to additional restrictions as determined by the review
 panel. Applicants shall consult City of Portland Planning and Urban Development staff to
 determine the roads and/or intersections proposed are appropriate;
Receipt of a temporary painting within public roadways permit from the Department of Planning
and Urban Development does not constitute receipt of all required permits. Additional permits
may be required for road closure from the Department of Public Works and/or Permitting &
Inspections. Applicants shall provide documentation of receipt of all required permits prior to
installation.
Materials, fabrication, and transportation to and from the roadway is the sole responsibility of the
applicant and not that of the city. Materials related to street closure, such as flags, sawhorses, etc.
can be rented from DPW but are the sole responsibility of the applicant and not that of the city.
Examples of projects that are considered temporary painting within public roadways:




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 Figure 1: Grace Street Mural (left) | Black is Beautiful Mural (right)

Crosswalk Painting Projects
Applications proposing the painting of crosswalks shall be reviewed administratively by the
Planning Authority. Applicants shall submit a complete temporary art application submitted to
the Planning & Urban Development Department.
Approved crosswalk painting permits may be renewed annually. To renew an approved
crosswalk painting permit, the applicant shall submit a renewal request to the Director of
Planning & Urban Development no less than sixty (60) days prior to the proposed installation
date. The City of Portland reserves the right to a deny a request if the installation is determined
to create safety concerns or if planned or ongoing construction, roadway improvements, paving,
utility work, or other municipal activities would conflict with the proposed installation.
Crosswalk painting proposals shall comply with the following requirements:
 ● City of Portland Department of Public Works has municipal jurisdiction over roadways
 with a posted speed limit of 25 miles-per-hour or less. Roadway paintings shall not be
 allowed on any street with speed limits at or above 30 miles-per-hour.
 ● MaineDOT shall review state roadways as indicated in the City of Portland’s Technical
 Manual Section 1. Transportation Systems and Street Design Standards federal street
 classification (Figure I-26).
 ● Crosswalk painting shall utilize temporary chalk-based paint, as recommended by the
 Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) and the City of Portland Department
 of Public Works, or an alternative paint approved by both agencies. Paint materials shall
 not be retroreflective and shall be designed to fully fade or wear away within one (1) year
 of installation.
 ● Three dimensional (3D) crosswalks and word messaging, and directional signals within
 the crosswalk are not allowed;
 ● Painting of white crosswalk stripes (known as “keys”) is not allowed;
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 ● Each application will require a traffic-control plan that includes a timeline to the
 satisfaction of City of Portland Department of Public Works staff. This timeline shall
 include the date and duration of street closure;
 ● Streets under a Street Moratorium or those that have been paved within one year prior to
 receipt of an application shall not be allowed for painting; and
 ● Crosswalks with paving patterns including but not limited to: cobblestone, Belgian-block,
 brick, or masonry, is not allowed;
Examples of projects that are considered crosswalk painting projects:




 Figure 2: Example Crosswalk Painting Projects

Traffic Calming Demonstration Projects
Applications proposing temporary street modifications intended to improve active transportation,
calm traffic, enhance public safety, or support placemaking, and that incorporate painted
markings or surface treatments, shall not be considered Temporary Art Projects. Such proposals
shall be reviewed and processed in accordance with the City of Portland Department of Public
Works Demonstration Projects Policy.




 Figure 3: Traffic Calming Demonstration Project Examples

Application Process
Applicants should submit a complete application not less than three months prior to the intended
date of installation. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.


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 1. A meeting with the applicant may be requested by the review panel prior to approval or
 denial.
 2. Approval/denial notification will be sent to the email address provided on the application.

 3. If the review panel requires further review, an additional meeting will be scheduled with
 the artist at the panel’s next monthly meeting. Revisions requested by the review panel
 must be made in order to receive final approval and an installation permit.
 4. The proposed contractual agreement with the Department of Public Works will be
 emailed to the applicant with the notification of approval of the installation.
 5. Following receipt of the approval email, each applicant must submit a signed contractual
 agreement in the form provided with the approval email, signage information, proof of
 insurance, an endorsement page, at least five digital images of existing site conditions,
 and a security deposit in the amount required in the approval email.
Applicants should feel free to contact Planning staff with questions concerning their applications.
Contractual Agreement
The contractual agreement will be emailed to applicant with notification of approval.
Proof of Insurance & Endorsement Page
Proof of liability insurance and an endorsement page naming the City of Portland as an
additional insured with general liability coverage of at least $400,000 for bodily injury or death
is required. The Certificate of Insurance must state the name of the artist, the site of installation,
and duration of agreement. Insurance coverage must extend from installation through artwork
removal and site restoration. If an extension is approved, the liability insurance must also be
extended. The certificate and endorsement page provided by the insurance company must be
emailed in PDF digital format to the Department of Planning & Urban Development.*
Security Deposit
A security deposit will be required and must be submitted in cash, check, or by credit card to the
Department of Planning & Urban Development. The amount of the deposit will be based on the
estimated cost to remove the installation and restore the site. Typical security deposits will range
from $100 to $1000. The security deposit will be retained until the artwork is removed, site
restoration has been approved, and all required documentation has been submitted. (See
“Artwork Removal and Site Restoration Documentation” on page 4.) Upon fulfillment of these
requirements, the security deposit will be returned in full. In case it becomes necessary for the
City to remove the artwork and/or restore the site, the City’s costs will be deducted from the
security deposit.*
*The Portland Public Art Committee does not wish that these fiduciary requirements become a major
impediment to otherwise worthy temporary art. Applicants for whom these requirements impose a
genuine hardship are encouraged to complete the application process and submit a statement of need to
the panel. Should the piece be otherwise acceptable, efforts will be made by PPAC to secure a small
stipend to be used to defray the cost of insurance, deposit or other expenses associated with the project.
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Installation, Maintenance, & Removal Process
 1. Installation may begin upon receipt of the installation permit.

 2. The artwork shall be installed in accordance with the approved timeline.

 3. Artwork to be installed near trees shall be subject to approval by the City Arborist.

 4. Site must be marked and DIG SAFE (1-888-344-7233) approval must be obtained for all
 post and foundation locations. The artist should keep in mind that DIG SAFE requires a
 four-day advance notice.
 5. Digging holes or drilling is not permitted on hardscapes; digging on softscapes, and
 driving vehicles on grass or unauthorized areas, requires prior approval from DPW staff.
 6. Artist or artist’s approved designee must maintain the artwork in the condition originally
 approved. The artist or approved designee must monitor the installation and take action
 to amend or remove the artwork if necessary within specified time frames.
 7. Artist must provide required documentation to the Department of Planning & Urban
 Development within 30 days of removal and site restoration.
Signage
Only official temporary public art signage is allowed on or near the artwork. Signage shall
include the name of the artist, title of work, construction materials, and period of installation. A
list of project sponsors and an optional summary description of the artwork may also be
included. No commercial content or sales information may be included. A QR code, web link,
or similar information for contacting the artist may be permitted.
Required Maintenance & Unanticipated Repair or Removal
Periodic inspections by the artist or the artist’s designee are expected. Damage to the site or the
artwork, including vandalism and graffiti, must be repaired or removed within 72 hours
following notification by the City. If an installation becomes a safety hazard, it must be repaired,
removed, or stabilized as soon as possible, but no more than 48 hours following notification by
the City. If repairs are not made within the required time frames, the artist will be advised that
the City will take appropriate action to repair and/or restore the site, and any costs incurred will
be deducted from the security deposit. The City reserves the right to remove the artwork and
will not be held financially responsible for site restoration or any damage to the artwork.
Scheduled Removal & Site Restoration
A timeline for installation, removal, and site restoration must be submitted with each application.
Duration from start of installation to complete site restoration may not exceed 12 months.
Artwork removal and site restoration must take no more than 5 days to complete. The liability
insurance of $400,000 must cover the period from artwork installation to site restoration.
If the approved timeline is not adhered to, the City may carry out all unperformed actions. The
artist will be informed if the City decides to take such action, and all associated costs will be
deducted from the security deposit.
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Artwork Documentation
The artist must provide final documentation of the project to the City staff within 30 days of site
restoration demonstrating adequate site restoration. The final project documentation may be used
by the Portland Public Art Committee to promote art in public spaces, and to refine the
temporary public art procedures process. The PPAC shall have the right to use and reproduce
the final project documentation material. Final Project Documentation shall include:
 ● Two or more digital images of the condition of the site prior to installation;
 ● Two or more digital images of the installation process;
 ● At least five images of the artwork while on display;
 ● At least five images of the site after completion of site restoration;
 ● Written feedback pertaining to this project, i.e. impact of your piece, public feedback,
 suggestions for improvement of temporary public art process, etc. (suggested length: 250
 words)
Application
The application form is available online at the Temporary Art webpage:
https://www.portlandmaine.gov/470/Public-Art-Program or by contacting the PPAC staff
representative and includes the following:
 ● Title of Work
 ● Artist Information
 ● Summary - Physical description of artwork including dimensions, materials used in
 construction and installation. Description of site location and plan for any site disturbance
 during installation.
 ● Technical Requirements - Lighting, sound or technical needs associated with the project
 and how they will be procured. Impact, if any, project will have on pedestrian or
 vehicular traffic. (Any projects using sound must follow the city ordinances regarding
 volume. Please submit a recording for review with the application.) Additional city
 licenses may be required.
 ● Maintenance and Safety - Brief description of maintenance requirements. Public health,
 safety, and welfare liability issues, i.e., toxic materials, sharp edges, structural stability,
 security issues, and obstruction of sight lines or issues related to pedestrian and vehicular
 traffic.
 ● Schedule – Timeline of installation, duration, and removal. Names and contact
 information for artist and parties responsible for installation, maintenance, security and
 removal of artwork.
 ● Attachments: Resume, 10 images and slide list, structural sketches, animation, or
 maquettes of proposed piece on site, optional expanded summary (no more than one
 page).

Application Exemptions

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For proposed street murals, this process may be expedited for any city owned streets within
commercial or mixed-use areas (the downtown, major thorough fares). In these cases, there will
be at least a one week notice to stakeholders for comment/meeting participation. Additional
members of the review panel may include Metro or MDOT depending on proposed location.
Applicants shall submit a complete application to the Planning & Urban Development
Department via email at Email application in Microsoft Word Document (word.doc or
.docx) form to the planning@portlandmaine.gov. PPAC staff at the following address:
Sean King, Urban Designer; publicart@portlandmaine.gov
Planning & Urban Development Department, Planning Division
389 Congress Street, 4th Floor
Portland, ME 04101
Phone: (207) 874-8901
Application Checklist:
 ● Completed application (in word document form, .doc or .docx)
 ● Resume, including experience relevant to public art
 ● Sketches or scale rendering of art work
 ● Map of proposed installation including positioning of artwork on site
 ● Images, animation, or maquette of art work
 ● Images of previous/related work (Please limit images to a total of 10. Images should be
 no more than 5MB each. Please label images: Last name__Firstname__jpeg__)
 ● Optional expanded statement of intention (Limit one page)
 ● Supplemental Materials for Temporary Painting within Public Roadways




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