Letter
Dear Ms. Nauden:
In its meeting of 19 March, the Commission of Fine Arts reviewed the proposed concept design by artist Jann Rosen-Queralt for the public artwork and fountain in the new Columbia Heights neighborhood streetscape project at 14th Street and Park Road, NW. The Commission requested further development of the design to respond to the specific context of the site.
The Commission members expressed concern that the fine scale and delicacy of the tiles depicting textiles may be overwhelmed by the traffic elements, infrastructure, and street furniture associated with the project. Given the high use and urban character of the site, they recommended that the art elements for this streetscape project should be enlarged in scale and in boldness commensurate with the setting. They asked for a reconsideration of the impact of vertical elements, such as trees and benches, in defining a clear relationship between the art and the public space. Several of the Commission members also raised concerns about the technical performance of the tile regarding its durability and as a potential slipping hazard.
The Commission requested that a revised concept design, including material samples, be submitted for review when ready. As always, the staff is available to assist you with the next submission.
Sincerely,
/s/Thomas E. Luebke, AIA
Secretary
Gloria Nauden, Executive Director
D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities
1371 Harvard Street, NW
Washington, DC 20009
cc: Rachel Dickerson, D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities