The application period will run through Oct. 21, with the selection process concluding by Dec. 3
WASHOUGAL — The city of Washougal is now seeking applications for positions on the Washougal Arts Commission. The commission was established at the May 29, 2018 City Council meeting to identify and actively encourage the development and sustainability of arts in the city.
The application period will run through Oct. 21, with the selection process concluding by Dec. 3. The first commission meeting is expected to take place in January 2020.
Initial funding for the arts commission in the amount of $5,000 was appropriated by the City Council in 2019. Additional funding for programs and expenses will come from grants, donations and admission charges.
“Public art does something that invigorates public spaces and makes us proud of the unique qualities that make the Washougal community our home. The best of public art can challenge, delight, and educate us, but most of all, it creates a sense of civic vitality that enriches our lives,” said Mayor Molly Coston.
While the positions on the commission are open to anyone, the goal is to have at least one member from a local or regional arts organization, one youth member and one member that has held a position as an arts educator. The city also seeks representation from individuals with arts experience and professions as well as those who have an interest in the artistic and cultural development of the city.
Duties of Washougal arts commissioners will include:
- Advise city council on issues relating to artwork, artistic endeavors and opportunities in the city
- Develop public art policies for acquisition, display and presentation
- Identify projects that could benefit from artists’ involvement
- Select artists
- Act as a representative/voice of the community in matters of public art
- Develop collaborations and connections with Washougal schools and local, regional and national arts organizations
- Inform public about art and culture in the city
The Washougal Arts Commission will be composed of no fewer than five and no more than nine members who will be appointed by the mayor with approval from the city council. At least a majority of the members must be residents within the city. Commission members will serve three year terms and all positions are unpaid. The commission will meet quarterly with all meetings open to the public. Representing the city, Parks and Cemetery Program Manager Suzanne Grover will facilitate meetings and Michelle Wagner will take on the role of council liaison.
“The Washougal Arts Commission will be a forum for residents to express and share their visions, values and passion about our community,” stated Coston. “I am so pleased that we, in the city of Washougal, will be able to offer yet another opportunity for our citizens to become involved in a way that will build a lasting legacy for generations to follow.”
Application materials are available at Washougal City Hall (1701 C Street) or online at https://cityofwashougal.us/arts. Interested individuals should submit all application materials by Oct. 21, 2019 to City Hall. Interviews will take place the week of Nov. 18, 2019 and applicants selected for positions will be notified by the week of Dec. 3, 2019.
Find out more about the duties and responsibilities of the Washougal Arts Commission and information about other opportunities to serve on Washougal boards and commissions, please visit https://www.cityofwashougal.us/bc.
Information provided by city of Washougal.
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