2024-10-15 FAC Minutes
Minutes of the Fine Arts Commission meeting held on October 15, 2024.
Members present:
Kristen Adsit
Beth Boone
Anne Camille Hersh
Ian Peter Hosfeld
Clarissa Rodriguez
Tara Strickstein
Members absent:
Victor Bruce
Also present:
Angela Dorney, Recreation Director
Leslie Rackl, Executive Assistant
The meeting was called to order at 6:35 p.m.
New Commission member introductions were made at this time. Discussion turned to the election of Chair
and Vice Chair of the Commission. Responsibilities of the Chair include attending Miami Shores Community
Alliance meetings once a month; once a quarter the Commission attends a Council meeting to give an
update them on Commission events, projects, etc; run the monthly meetings and report/meet with Village
Manager and Village Attorney (if necessary). Ms. Dorney added that the Fine Arts Commission is a working
board.
Ms. Boone inquired about criteria/guidelines for selection of projects, including a framework to evaluate
projects. Ms. Dorney said that there is an ordinance for the guidelines of Art in Public Places.
Ms. Boone would like to see something in writing pertaining to the responsibilities of a Chair before moving
forward with a vote.
Ms. Rodriguez suggested that the Commission’s Fall programming needs to be in an indoor venue due to
weather conditions. It was also noted that 3-peat programs have been very successful, such as the
January-March concert series. Commission members noted that gallery night is not conducive at Village
Hall. The 9900 building was selected as a new venue for a group art show, but it was determined that due
to the condition of the building it was not feasible. Ms. Dorney added that the Council is currently asking for
letters of interest for the 9900 building.
Ms. Rodriguez noted that some projects previously discussed include Ms. Adsit’s interest in categorizing all
of the art work in Miami Shores as well as the maintenance needed for a majority of the pieces. Ms. Adsit
said that the question has also arisen if the projects are permanent or temporary acquisitions. Ms.
Rodriguez also explained the streetscapes project to new members.
Ms. Rodriguez would like to revisit the goals of the Fine Arts Commission, including defining its’ mission and
projects. A recap of all of the projects that the Commission has done in recent years would also be helpful.
It was noted that the Mayor is interested in possible uses for the 9900 builiding. Ms. Rodriguez said that the
Mayor has asked Ms. Rodriguez for a letter of interest for the 9900 building on behalf of the Commission.
Ms. Rodriguez said that the Commission has suggested creating a multi-cultural center with the 9900
building, which will help Downtown Miami Shores flourish including an artist residency program.
Discussion turned to the Parks Master Plan; Ms. Dorney has scheduled the Commission members to meet
with the consultants on October 29th from 3pm-4pm.
Mr. Hosfeld said that he is scheduled to meet with Barry, noting that they have beautiful exhibit spaces but
they are reserved through April 2025. Barry has an alternate space, which Mr. Hosfeld feels may not be
ideal for the Commission’s exhibit. Ms. Rodriguez noted that another space which may work is the Miami
Shores Presbyterian Church, noting that the pews may be removable. Ms. Rodriguez noted that the
storyteller is still available for an event.
Ms. Adsit made a motion to approve $50 for the purchase of a get well card and gift for Mark Weiser.
Motion seconded by Ms. Boone and unanimously approved.
Mr. Hosfeld made a motion to approve the minutes of the September 10, 2024 meeting. Motion
seconded by Ms. Adsit and unanimously approved.
It was noted that the Commission has a Village budget for 2024-2025 of $10,000.
Ms. Dorney noted that Miami Dade Cultural Grants are also available. Ms. Boone suggested getting a grant
writer.
The meeting adjourned at 8:00pm