Arts panel eyes metal artwork for downtown

A large piece of metal artwork may be on its way to Jefferson City's downtown.

The Jefferson City Cultural Arts Commission voted Wednesday to pursue initial planning and negotiations to install a one-of-a-kind piece in the Gundelfinger lot, in the 300 block of East High Street.

Commissioner Thomas Hartman will continue to research artists who work with metal.

Other commissioners will look into details, including lighting, security and maintenance.

Britt Smith, operations division director for the city's Department of Public Works, told the commission the basement level site was improved with the hope something more would be done there.

The site poses a visibility issue, but the commissioners agreed it could be developed into a gathering destination.

Commissioners considered other locations, including the "strollway" in the 200 block of East High Street and the Missouri River Regional Library greenspace.

In other business, the commission:

• Anticipates a statue to be installed in a city roundabout should be completed within 60 days.

• Continues negotiations with Lincoln University to create Art Event Videos, which are sent as e-mail blasts instead of an arts calendar to promote upcoming local programs.

• Learned that six replacement banners for the downtown light poles should be installed this fall.

• Noted two openings remain for commissioners.

• Discussed the success of the Sit and Sip fundraiser, which added nearly $4,000 to the Jefferson City Cultural Arts Foundation.

• Is seeking a metal artist and a large location where a school bus, donated to the commission, may be converted into art.