Boback Emad Public Art Project

Artist Background


Boback Emad was educated originally as an architect, Boback graduated California Polytechnic University in 1991. He has worked as a sculptor for many years, attributing the inspiration for his strong, steel sculptures to Julio Gonzales, David Smith, Alexander Calder and Mark De Suvero. His dynamic works can be found in many notable collections, including the Children's Hospital in Seattle, Washington, the Spokane Museum of Art, Spokane, Washington and the Loveland Art Museum, Loveland, Colorado. His art work can be seen around Sonoma County, including pieces at the Sonoma Country Day School in Santa Rosa and at Auberge du Soleil in Napa.

Project Description


In May, 2007, the City of Santa Rosa's Art in Public Places Committee announced a new public art commission opportunity for an artist to design and implement a permanent art project in a streetscape location, as a landmark element at College and Mendocino Avenue in Santa Rosa, California. The art project should create a distinctive visual landmark for the entrance into the city center and contribute to the downtown area.

Picking the finalists and winner included a selection panel. A special thanks to the Santa Rosa Plaza Mall and the Voigt Family Sculpture Foundation for their support with this project.

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Dedication Event
Dedication

Background


The City's new Art District contributes to the Art and Culture Element in the City's General Plan 2020, which calls for the creation of more inspiring places for the residents and visitors of Santa Rosa to enjoy. This public art project contributes to these goals and others such as with the Redevelopment Plan and the Main Street Program. The project site was identified as a gateway or entrance to the Downtown Arts District from the north, and will distinguish the downtown area, as well as complement the Ned Kahn installation at the west entrance on 3rd Street and the Charles Ginnever sculpture at the south entrance in Juilliard Park. The site itself is located on the property of Superior Floor Coverings, the owners of which have welcomed the opportunity to participate in the project and in the selection process.

Budget


This project was identified as a priority for the new Downtown Arts District. The total $50,000 compensation for the art will come from the seed money allocated from Economic Development and Redevelopment to initiate the New Downtown Arts District.

Public Display of Art Proposals


The 5 finalists' proposals were on public display at the Santa Rosa Plaza Mall from September 7 through October 7. The public was invited to view the artists' maquettes, sketches and other display materials. Public comments were welcomed!

Finalists


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Riis Burwell
Bryan Tedrick
Daniel Oberti
Robert Ellison