Add an arts commission to the Town of Friday Harbor’s roster of advisory panels.
Created by the Town Council Nov. 6, the Friday Harbor Arts Commission is tasked with advising the council on cultivation, selection, acquisition and the placement of public art.
An all-volunteer panel, the seven-person commission will consists of San Juan Island residents, and will be appointed by the mayor. Applications are being accepted, right away.
“I am thrilled to be implementing this long overdue advisory committee that will help to ensure the arts have an active and prominent role in our town,” Mayor Carrie Lacher said in a press release. “Local artwork helps to bring meaning to public spaces, and art of all kinds can invigorate a community while reflecting our quality of life.”
Town officials anticipate dedicating a minimum of $10,000 a year to public art.
The commission will include at least one member of the town council, two representatives of the visual arts and one representative of the performing arts. Initial appointments will be for one to three years, beginning Jan. 1, 2015.
In addition, the panel can include one non-voting member, age 16 to 19, appointed to a one-year term that runs October to September.
“This is an excellent opportunity for a college-bound student to demonstrate their commitment to community service,” Administrator Duncan Wilson said.
Applicants are asked to provide a letter of interest that includes experience, background, or involvement with the arts, as well as their ability to represent the interests of the town, the community and local artists, and to interact positively in a public forum. Examples of art or experience in the artistic realm can be included.
Details about responsibilities, commission policies and its enabling legislation can be found on the town website, www.fridayharbor.org, under “What’s New.”
Applications will be reviewed immediately and continue until all positions are filled.
Questions and application letter can be directed to: Duncan Wilson, Town of Friday Harbor, 60 Second Street, P.O. Box 219, Friday Harbor, WA 98250; or call 378-2810, ext. 226.
