Public art created a general consensus heard loud and clear. San Diego needs more of it. There was a slightly higher demand to integrate art and artists into any future city planning or development. We like the idea, mentioned more than once, to have temporary outdoor public sculptures placed throughout the city. Rotating them out as new ones come in would be stimulating, exciting, and opens up the possibility for fresher, stronger works.
Studios and housing are a county-wide issue. Only three people thought artists could benefit from more affordable housing and studio space. It is probably safe to say that not just artists but anyone living and renting within the county of San Diego could use less expensive housing. In the end, you still have to make the art no matter how big the loft is. So, the question is, does every artist need a studio these days? Not likely. Live/work spaces and art centers for multiple artists seem to be the way forward.
$$$! Everyone wants it, but artists and the people whose support they depend on hardly get any. Less bartering for services and goods when putting on shows and productions, more local public and private grants and funding, city and local government philanthropy, small business loans for galleries, and the buying of art, just might do the trick. Let’s stop thinking of art as a charity and remember it has great value.
Finally, a special award is given to Jean Lowe, for her cheerleading efforts in support of the arts: “San Diego has a really energetic and interesting art scene — it just needs to believe it!”
The answer in the end might be just a question of confidence.
Article comments
1 - Joanne Huspek
Good plans for an area that is one of the most arts encouraged around.