ACC 7-28-2025 Searchable PacketCITY OF CUPERTINO
ARTS AND CULTURE COMMISSION
AGENDA
10185 North Stelling Road, Quinlan Conference Room
Monday, July 28, 2025
6:30 PM
Members of the public wishing to observe the meeting may do so in one of the following
ways:
1) Attend in person at Quinlan Community Center, 10185 N. Stelling Road
2) The meeting will also be streamed live on and online at
https://youtube.com/@cupertinocitycommission
Members of the public wishing to comment on an item on the agenda may do so in the
following ways:
1) Appear in person at Quinlan Community Center.
2) E-mail comments by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, July 28 to the legislative body at artsand
culture@cupertino.gov. These e-mail comments will also be posted to the City’s website
after the meeting.
Oral public comments may be made during the public comment period for each agenda
item.
Members of the audience who address the legislative body must come to the
lectern/microphone and are requested to complete a Speaker Card and identify themselves.
Completion of Speaker Cards and identifying yourself is voluntary and not required to
attend the meeting or provide comments.
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1.Subject: Approval of the May 19, 2025 Arts and Culture Commission Minutes.
Approve the May 19, 2025 Arts and Culture Commission
Minutes.
A - Draft Minutes
POSTPONEMENTS
Page 1
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Arts and Culture Commission Agenda July 28, 2025
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
This portion of the meeting is reserved for persons wishing to address the Commission on any matter
within the jurisdiction of the Commission and not on the agenda. Speakers are limited to three (3)
minutes. In most cases, State law will prohibit the Commission from making any decisions with respect
to a matter not on the agenda.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
CONSENT CALENDAR
OLD BUSINESS
2.Subject: Finalize Recommendations to the Municipal Code standards for art in public
and private development, including the standards in the Municipal Code and
developing an Art-in-lieu fee policy.
Recommended Action: Receive a presentation and provide feedback for Staff.
Staff Report
A - Municipal Code Chapter 19.148 Required Artwork in Public and Private Developments
B - Amended Policy (City Council Resolution No. 05-040)
NEW BUSINESS
3.Subject: Presentation by Photographer and Cupertino resident Jean Zuo.
Recommended Action: Receive a Presentation.
4.Subject: 2025 Artist Awards Program and Theme Selection.
Recommended Action: 1. Receive a presentation on the 2025 Artist Awards Program.
2. Discuss and select a theme for the 2025 Artist Awards Program.
Staff Report
A - Artist Awards Descriptions and Application Requirements
B - Artist Awards Evaluation Forms
C - Artist Awards Program Timeline
D - Artist Awards Program Flyers
STAFF AND COMMISSION REPORTS
FUTURE AGENDA SETTING
ADJOURNMENT
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), anyone who is planning to attend this
meeting who is visually or hearing impaired or has any disability that needs special assistance should
call the City Clerk's Office at 408-777-3223, at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting to arrange for
assistance. In addition, upon request in advance by a person with a disability, meeting agendas and
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Arts and Culture Commission Agenda July 28, 2025
writings distributed for the meeting that are public records will be made available in the appropriate
alternative format.
Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the members after publication of the agenda will
be made available for public inspection. Please contact the City Clerk’s Office in City Hall located at
10300 Torre Avenue, Cupertino, California 95014, during normal business hours.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please be advised that pursuant to Cupertino Municipal Code section
2.08.100 written communications sent to the City Council, Commissioners or staff concerning a matter
on the agenda are included as supplemental material to the agendized item. These written
communications are accessible to the public through the City website and kept in packet archives. Do
not include any personal or private information in written communications to the City that you do not
wish to make public, as written communications are considered public records and will be made
publicly available on the City website.
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
Agenda Item
25-14163 Agenda Date: 7/28/2025
Agenda #: 1.
Subject: Approval of the May 19, 2025 Arts and Culture Commission Minutes.
Approve the May 19, 2025 Arts and Culture Commission Minutes.
CITY OF CUPERTINO Printed on 7/23/2025Page 1 of 1
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DRAFT MINUTES
ARTS AND CULTURE COMMISSION
Monday, May 19, 2025
At 6:32 p.m. Chair Rohra called the regular meeting to order at the Quinlin Conference Room,
10185 North Stelling Road, and via teleconference.
ROLL CALL
Present: Chair Kiran Rohra, Vice Chair David Wang, Commissioners Susan Chen, Gurmeet S Lamba,
and Archana Panda.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. Subject: Approval of the March 24, 2025 Arts and Culture Commission
Minutes
Recommended Action: Approve the March 24, 2025 Arts and Culture
Commission Minutes
Commissioners asked questions and made comments, which Senior
Planner Martire responded to.
MOTION: Panda moved and Lamba seconded to approve March 24, 2025 Arts and
Culture Commission Minutes. The motion carried with the following vote: Ayes:
Lamba, Panda, Wang, Rohra Noes: None. Abstain: Chen. Absent: None.
POSTPONEMENTS
MOTION: Roha moved and Lamba and Panda seconded to hear the New Business
Item before the Old Business item.
The motion carried with the following vote: Ayes: Chen, Lamba, Panda, Wang, Rohra
Noes: None. Abstain: None. Absent: None.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - None
CONSENT CALENDAR- None
PUBLIC HEARINGS – None
NEW BUSINESS
3. Subject: Presentation by SVCreates to the Commission about the functions and
services the organization can provide to the City and Cupertino community.
Recommended Action: Receive presentation. 5
Arts and Culture Commission May 19, 2025
Chair Rohra introduced Alexandria Urbanowski, CEO of SVCreates and Jessica
Kwong, Community Engagement Manager of SVCreates who gave a presentation.
Commissioners asked questions and made comments on the presentation.
OLD BUSINESS
2. Subject: Study Session to revisit the Municipal Code standards for art in public and
private development, including the standards in the Municipal Code and developing
an Art-in-lieu fee policy.
Recommended Action: Receive a presentation and provide feedback for Staff.
Senior Planner Martire gave a presentation.
Commissioners made comments and asked questions. Senior Planner Martire
responded to Commissioner questions.
Commissioner Lamba recommended changing restrictions to the Public Art fund in
the City Council Art in-lieu Fee Policy, under the Public Art Fund section – by
striking the two or three lines describing the restrictions to the funds, and instead of
General Fund, they specifically state Public Art Fund – and develop a criteria for what
the Public Art Fund can be used for, one criteria being it is not committed for the
following years – leaving things like grants up to yearly determination.
Vice Chair Wang suggested that the language is too restrictive – stating that the in lieu
fees should not be limited to physical art. He recommended that it also be used for
programming, funding art shows, creating scholarships, supporting education, and
other potential items as determined by the Commission.
Commissioners agreed that the Public Arts Fund should not be used for staffing and
administrative fees.
Chair Rohra stated that they should add examples, but not add negatives about what
not to use the fund for.
Vice Chair Wang recommended they state what the Public Art Fund cannot be used
for.
Commissioners agreed to recommended to refine the second paragraph, under
“Public Art Fund” to state not use the art in lieu fees for staffing and administration.
Commissioner Panda recommended that they should not restrict the Public Art Fund 6
Arts and Culture Commission May 19, 2025
to art, but instead make it more open and inclusive.
Commissioners discussed the Art Walk and potential improvements for marketing,
using the website.
Vice Chair Wang recommended they increase funding to Art in Unexpected Places,
increase funding to a rotating art gallery on city property, for example libraries, city
hall, or Quinlan, finally adding community grants for local art projects, artists, and art
organizations.
Chair Rohra expressed a desire to have an Art Tour in the summer incorporating the
Parks and Recreation department for the youths in the City.
Commissioner Panda and Lamba expressed a desire to incorporate seniors.
Chair Rohra discussed a desire to do an Art and Wine show in Memorial Park,
potentially to celebrate a holiday, and expressed a desire to work with non-profits.
She also discussed doing single artists features in the library, and using other city
facilities to showcase art. She also expressed a desire to create semi-permanent or
permanent exhibitions in city facilities.
Commissioners agreed they would like to showcase art on Main Street.
Chair Rohra expressed a desire to partner with the Chamber of Commerce to add art
to the Wine Walk.
STAFF AND COMMISSION REPORTS
Senior Planner Martire reported that Jollyman Park has been completed with a grand opening
occurring in June, and that he would send Commissioners invites.
He also announced that the art piece in Westport was completed, and would ask if there was to be
a grand opening.
He announced that there weren’t any projects to be approved in 2025, and about ten different
development projects are scheduled to come through in 2026 – meaning an increase in in leu fees.
He also announced that July was the beginning of the Artist Awards season, during which they
will be adopting the theme, and in November, they will be voting on the art pieces.
He also mentioned a publicity piece the communications department was doing, and that it was
planned for mid summer/fall. He stated that he communicated there was interest from the Arts
Commission to be interviewed.
He also reported that the Mayor was potentially bringing back hybrid meetings for Commissions – 7
Arts and Culture Commission May 19, 2025
which would affect public comment.
Chair Rohra also emphasized the importance of Commissioners attending the Arts and Culture
meetings.
FUTURE AGENDA SETTING
ADJOURNMENT
At 8:22 p.m. Chair Rohra adjourned the Regular Arts and Culture Commission
Meeting.
Minutes prepared by:
Lindsay Nelson, Administrative Assistant
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
Agenda Item
25-14170 Agenda Date: 7/28/2025
Agenda #: 2.
Subject:Finalize Recommendations to the Municipal Code standards for art in public and private
development,including the standards in the Municipal Code and developing an Art-in-lieu fee
policy.
Receive a presentation and provide feedback for Staff.
CITY OF CUPERTINO Printed on 7/23/2025Page 1 of 1
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ARTS AND CULTURE COMMISSION STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: July 22, 2025
Subject
Finalize Recommendations to the Municipal Code standards for art in public and private development,
including the standards in the Municipal Code and developing an Art-in-lieu fee policy.
Recommended Action
Receive a presentation and provide feedback for Staff.
Discussion
On April 3, 2024, the City Council approved the FY 2024-2025 City Work Program with a total of 20
projects. One of the new projects that is aligned with Council’s Quality of Life goals is associated with art
in public and private areas. This requires revisiting the City’s Municipal Code standards for art in public
and private development, including the standards in the Municipal Code and developing an Art‐in‐lieu
fee policy.
The Municipal Code Chapter 19.148: Required Artwork in Public and Private Developments, is the standard
of which the City currently uses for evaluating art in the City. Further, the City Council on March 1, 2005,
approved Resolution No. 05-040 adopting guidelines for the selection of public art.
Prior Arts and Culture Commission Meeting
On September 23, 2024, March 24, 2025, and May 19, 2025 Arts and Culture Commission meetings, staff
presented this item for consideration. The Commission asked questions and made comments. The
recommendations included:
Arts & Culture Commission to approve in-lieu payment option.
In-lieu payment and valuation of art pieces on private development shall be
maintained at a consistent valuation of 1%.
The City shall create and maintain a separate art fund.
A potential use of art funding should be used to develop an arts Master Plan, and
other Commission recommendations. Reference Vice Chair Wang’s presentation
from August 12, 2024. Emphasis added to expand funding to art programming
beyond physical art.
City Council to be the decision-making body, upon recommendation by the Arts
and Culture Commission, for the allocation of funds.
The Commission moved staff to provide a final redline versions of the Municipal Code and Policy for
review at the July 22, 2025 meeting. Attachment A provides the redline version of CMC Table 19.12.030
Approval Authority and Chapter 19.148: Required Artwork in Public and Private Developments. These
changes allow the Commission ultimate decision making on art in-lieu payment options, and lower the 10
contribution percentage. Attachment B provides an amendment to the City’s existing Policy (City
Council Resolution No. 05-040) by establishing a separate art fund, as well as parameters for what the
funds can be spent on.
Next Steps
The Art and Culture Commission's recommendations will be forwarded to Planning Commission and
City Council for consideration at a future study session.
_____________________________________
Prepared by: Gian Paolo Martire, Senior Planner
Attachments:
A - Municipal Code Chapters 19.12. 19.148 Required Artwork in Public and Private Developments
(redline)
B – Amended Policy (City Council Resolution No. 05-040)
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CHAPTER 19.12: ADMINISTRATION
Table 19.12.030 - Approval Authority
Type of
Permit or
Decision A, B
Administrative
Review A,B
Arts and
Culture
Commission
Planning
Commission
City
Council
Public Hearing/ Public
Meeting/ Comment Period C
Noticing
Radius D
Posted Site
Notice
Expiration Date E Chapter/
Findings
*ALL ROWS ABOVE UNCHANGED*
Public Art
Architectural
and Site
Approval
Permits
Public Art - F - A1 PM None None None
2.80 and 19.148
Art in lieu
payment
- FR - FA1 PM None None None
2.80 and 19.148
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CHAPTER 19.148: REQUIRED ARTWORK IN PUBLIC AND PRIVATE DEVELOPMENTS
19.148.010 Purpose and Intent.
The purpose of this chapter is to provide a review framework for public art in both public and private
developments in the City of Cupertino, commensurate with the following specific goals, as described in
the Cupertino General Plan:
A. Enhance community character and identity;
B. Provide attractive public arts to residents and visitors alike;
C. Stimulate opportunities for the arts through cooperative relations between local business and the City.
19.148.020 Applicability of Regulations.
A. Any development of ten thousand sq. ft. or larger involving construction of new buildings and/or the
expansion of existing buildings shall be subject to the requirements of this chapter.
B. Additional artwork not mentioned in this chapter by means of specific plan, permits or other
discretionary review may be required when deemed appropriate by the City Council.
19.148.030 Permitted Artwork.
Types of art that may be used to satisfy the requirements of this chapter include, but are not limited to,
the following:
A. Sculpture: in-the-round, bas-relief, mobile, fountain, kinetic, electronic, or other, in any material or
combination of materials;
B. Painting: all media, including portable and permanently affixed works, such as murals;
C. Graphic arts: printmaking, drawing, calligraphy and photography, but only when on a large public scale;
D. Mosaics;
E. Functional artwork created by a professional artist, such as benches, tree grates or trash receptacles;
F. Any other form of work of art determined by the Arts and Culture Commission to satisfy the intent of
this chapter.
19.148.040 Ineligible Artwork.
The following shall not be considered eligible to satisfy the requirements of this chapter:
A. Reproductions of original works of art, whether by mechanical or other means. However, permitted
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artwork may include limited editions, controlled by the artist, of original prints, cast sculpture,
photographs, or other art forms;
B. Directional or other functional elements such as supergraphics, signing, or color coding, except where
those elements are integral parts of original signed artworks;
C. Art objects which are mass-produced from a standard design, such as playground equipment,
fountains, flags or banners;
D. Landscaping and garden features, except where these elements are designed by the artist and are an
integral part of a fine artwork.
19.148.050 Application Procedures for Public Artwork.
A. An application for public artwork shall include all requirements of Chapter 19.12.
B. Application for public art for a new development shall be made in conjunction with the review of the
permits for the entire project, in order that the design and location be taken into consideration at the
time of architectural and site planning, as outlined in Chapter 19.168.
C. The Arts and Culture Commission shall review for approval the public art application and artwork. The
decision of the Arts and Culture Commission may be appealed in accordance with Sections 1.16.020
and 19.12.030 of the Cupertino Municipal Code, or as amended.
19.148.060 Design Criteria and Artist Qualifications.
It is the intent of this chapter to provide for public art on private property without imposing the artistic
preferences of the City on the owner or the developer of the property. Artistic preferences are to be
primarily those of the owner or developer of the property, but the artwork and its location is subject to
approval of the Arts and Culture Commission. A permit required pursuant to Section 19.148.050 shall be
granted upon a showing by the applicant that the proposed artwork meets the following criteria:
A. The artwork is of a nature specified in Section 19.148.030.
B. The artwork requirement is to be satisfied with one significant piece of artwork, except that the
requirement may be met with several works of art when specifically found by the Arts and Culture
Commission to fulfill the intent of this chapter. The artwork shall be an integral part of the landscaping
and/or architecture of the buildings.
C. The artwork shall be easily visible from the public street and be located in an area specifically
designated on the project site plan. Appropriate locations include, but are not limited to, entryways to
the property, greenbelts, and building exteriors. The artwork must be in permanent view to motorists
and pedestrians. Artwork located at the entrance to a development should make a major statement
and be visible from the main parking lot, if any. When located in proximity to major traffic
thoroughfares, the artwork should be at a motorist's scale and oriented toward the view corridor of the
motorist.
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D. Artwork located along Stevens Creek Boulevard or De Anza Boulevard corridors shall be large in scale
and oriented to the view corridors of the motorist. Appropriate artwork in these corridors will most
likely be sculptural: however, other forms of art may be considered if consistent with the intent of this
chapter. Artwork should have a visual impact upon passengers in a moving vehicle or pedestrians not
less than 100 feet away.
E. The composition of the artwork shall be of permanent materials requiring a low level of maintenance.
Materials used shall be durable and resistant to graffiti and the effects of weather.
F. The nature and style of the artwork shall be considered in the context of other artwork in the
surrounding area in order to encourage a wide range of art styles and materials, and to create a
balanced and interesting aesthetic appearance. The developer is encouraged to give preference to
artists living or working in the San Francisco Bay area, and to avoid using artists whose work is already
displayed as public art within the City of Cupertino boundaries.
G. Because the artwork will necessarily be highly visible to the public and be associated with City
requirements, expressions of obvious bad taste or profanity shall not be approved.
H. Water and/or electronic sculpture may be permitted if adequate assurance of continued maintenance
is provided.
I. Artwork shall be identified by an appropriate plaque or monument measuring not less than eight
inches by eight inches. The plaque shall be made of a durable, permanent material and shall be placed
near the artwork, and shall list the date of installation, title and artist, and medium.
J. The artwork shall be a permanent, maintained fixed asset of the property, and statements to this fact
shall be attached or recorded to the existing CC&R's or otherwise recorded on the property deed, to
advise subsequent property owners of their obligations to maintain the artwork.
K. The proposed artwork shall meet the criteria for review as set forth in the City of Cupertino Public Art
Program Guidelines for Selection of Public Art, as originally adopted by the City Council Resolution No.
05-040, or as later amended.
L. The artist's qualifications will be evaluated and examples of past work may be reviewed. The review,
however, shall be primarily for the purpose of determining the artist's experience with artwork of
monumental proportion.
19.148.070 Minimum Artwork Value.
The minimum expenditure for the artwork, including but not limited to design, fabrication, and
installation, shall be one percent of the construction valuation, with the following tiers:
A. 1% of the first $100 million of construction valuation.
B. 0.9% of construction valuation for valuation in excess of $100 million.
19.148.080 Maintenance Requirements.
The property owner shall maintain the artwork in good condition continuously after its installation, as 15
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determined appropriate by the City. Maintenance shall include all related landscaping, lighting, and
upkeep, including the identification plaque. Artwork required or approved pursuant to this chapter cannot
be removed, except for required maintenance or repair, unless approved by the City; at which time the
City may require replacement or relocation of the artwork. In the event that the artwork is located in the
public right-of-way, a maintenance agreement with the City shall be required.
19.148.090 In Lieu Payment for Artwork is Discouraged.
In some instances the placement of artwork on a particular property may not be feasible. The developer
or property owner may apply to the Arts and Culture Commission for an in lieu payment alternative on
projects that lack an appropriate location for public art., although such alternative is strongly discouraged.
In such cases, an in lieu payment of 1. 25% of the construction valuation may be made to the City,
pursuant to the approval authority provisions of Cupertino Municipal Code Chapter 19.12.030.
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CITY COUNCIL ART
IN-LIEU FEE POLICY
Citywide Policy Manual
Policy # TBD
Attachments:
City Council Resolution No. 05-040
Effective Date:
November XX, 2025, per Resolution 25-XX
Responsible Department:
Community Development and Public Works
Related Policies & Notes: Guidelines for
Selection of Public Art, Municipal Code
Chapter 19.148
City Council or Administrative Policy: City
Council
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to provide a process for any request to pay the City an alternative
in-lieu fee. The policy also provides amended guidance to the City staff, and the Arts and Culture
Commission for purchasing existing artwork and for commissioning artists to create new artwork
for the City.
In instances where the placement of required artwork on a particular development is not feasible,
the Arts and Culture Commission can approve an alternative in-lieu payment in the amount of 1%
of the construction valuation to the City, pursuant to the approval authority provisions of Cupertino
Municipal Code Chapter 19.12.030. Application of such alternative in-lieu fee can be found in
Municipal Code Chapter 19.148. The policy will ensure that any art in-lieu fees collected are spent in
accordance with existing policies and ordinances.
Public Art Fund
A separate Public Art Fund will be established with in-lieu fees collected from developments.
The in-lieu contributions in the Public Art Funds can only be used for the commissioning,
acquisition, fabrication, design, and installation of public art. In addition, funds may also be
utilized programming, funding art shows, creating scholarships, supporting education, and
other potential items as determined by the City Council based on the recommendation of the
Arts & Culture Commission.
Additionally, as the in-lieu developer fees are unpredictable in nature and can only be
considered as one-time revenues, they shall not be allocated for delivering ongoing city
services. As such, General Fund contributions will be required for any City of Cupertino public
art programming, including, but not limited to, staffing and administration of said programs,
website and publicity development.
Fund Distribution
Public art funds shall be distributed in a manner that is consistent with the Guidelines for Selection
of Public Art (City Council Resolution No. 05-040), as well as the standards as mandated in
Cupertino Municipal Code Chapter 19.148. The general cost for each individual public art piece is
unique. However, the City shall strive to limit soft costs, including, but not limited to installation
and consultant fees, to 20-25% of the project budget. Each project shall incorporate a contingency
range of 10-20% for unanticipated cost overruns.
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RESOLUTION NO. 05-040
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF CUPERTINO
ADOPTING GUIDELINES FOR THE SELECTION OF PUBLIC ART
WHEREAS, the City Council has expressed its support for public art in the community;
and
WHEREAS, the City has acquired public art through direct purchase or commission, as
well as in the form of a gift or loan; and
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to have consistent guidelines for the acquisition,
placement, and documentation of future acquisitions.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:
1.That the General Guidelines for the Selection of Public Art are adopted; and
2.Staff and Council members are directed to refer to these guidelines when
purchasing and commissioning public art, or when accepting loans and gifts of public art.
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council of the City of
Cupertino on the 1st day of March 2005, by the following vote:
Vote Members of the City Council
AYES: Kwok, Lowenthal, Sandoval, Wang, James
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
ATTEST:APPROVED:
s/ Kimberly Smith s/Patrick Kwok
City Clerk Mayor, City of Cupertino
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I «.
CITY OF
PERJ'INO
City of Cupertino Public Art Program
Guidelines for Selection of Public Art
Prepared by the Cupertino Fine Arts Commission
Adopted by City Council on March 1 , 2005
Resolution No. 05-040
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City of Cupertino Public Art Program
General Guidelines for Selection of Public Art
Purpose 3
Scope 3
Goals 3
Guidelines 4
Consultants 4
Criteria and Conditions for Selection of Art Work 4
Acquisition Procedures 5
Gifts 6
Title 6
Copyright 6
Placement and Exhibition 7
Access 7
Preservation and Maintenance 7
Documentation 7
Insurance 8
Deaccessioning Works of Art 8
Gift Receipt 9
Bill of Sale 10
Art Exhibition Agreement 11
Right of Entry and Indemnification Agreement 12
Catalogue of Art and Sculpture 14
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City of Cupertino Public Art Program
General Guidelines for Selection of Art
Purpose
The City of Cupertino Fine Arts Commission desires to create an artistic visual identity for
the city by placing artworks in various locations.
The purpose of this public art policy is to provide a process through which the city can accept
art work, including loans or gifts of public art. The policy also provides guidance to the city
and the Arts Commission for purchasing existing art work and for commissioning artists to
create new art work for the city.
Scope
This public art policy applies to the installation of all art work, including that which is loaned
to the city for more than three months, donated, purchased, or commissioned by the City of
Cupertino for public display. Public art exhibitions under three months' duration are
facilitated by the Commission.
Additional people may be chosen by the Commission to form an ad hoc committee to aid in
the selection of art for the city, including:
A. A member of the Fine Arts Commission
B. A member of a city commission from the area affected (parks, library, etc.)
C. A professional in the field of arts, which may include a professional artist, art
administrator, museum professional, architect, etc.
D. A person from the community at large
Goals
A. To develop the criteria for selecting public works of art by developing policies and
setting clear guidelines and objectives
B. To acquire art for the City of Cupertino's temporary and permanent collection of both
sited and portable art works, through purchase, competition, loan, donation, and
commission
C. To identify possible funding sources
D. To identify potential outdoor sites on public lands and inside public buildings that are
appropriate for placing completed artworks
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Guidelines
The following are guidelines for selecting artists and public art works:
A. A wide variety of visual media and materials will be considered
B. Materials used should require minimum maintenance and be maximally resistant to
vandalism
C. Environmental and public liability concerns will be considered in the selection of art
D. The selection of artists will not be restricted by age, gender, or ethnic background
E. The artist should have proven ability and experience in designing, producing, managing
and installing art work, including large-scale public art work, if necessary
F. When public funds are used, members of the community surrounding the location of
the future art work may be invited to a public forum to discuss the art project in order to
foster community appreciation of the art piece
G. A timeline shall be developed to coordinate and educate parties involved in the project
and to structure an overall plan for its completion.
Consultants
It may be desirable to involve the selected artist and/or a public art consultant to work with a
project design team at the conceptual phase of architectural planning in order to integrate the
art work into the site. If an artist has not yet been selected, a consultant may be asked to
offer art options and selection procedures.
The function of the consultant will be to foster communication among people with differing
backgrounds (e.g. artist, developer, planner, public works, architect, landscape architect,
engineers, attorney, community), and to manage the fabrication and/or installation of the art
work.
The consultant will be selected by the Cupertino City Council upon the recommendation of
the Fine Arts Commission, and in conjunction with other affected commissions as needed.
Criteria and Conditions for Selection of Art Work
A. The city shall maintain a responsible collection, maintenance, and de-accession policy
and procedure for art works that are accepted as part of the city's Public Art Program.
B. No acquisition shall be accepted without approval by the City Council. The City of
Cupertino may refuse a gift of art for any reason, and in particular if the city cannot
provide for the storage, protection, and preservation of the work under suitable
conditions, or if the art work does not meet the selection criteria of this document.
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C. Acceptance of art work shall be confirmed by means of an agreement between the donor
or artist and the city, including art work that is loaned for a defined period of time with
the lender retaining title to the art work
D. The following criteria shall be used in determining whether an art work is acceptable:
1. Aesthetics: It is deemed to be an art work of lasting aesthetic value that enhances the
city's cultural environment by being receptive, respectful, and stimulating, and it
contributes to the comprehensive record of visual arts for the community.
2. Quality: There is an inherent quality in the art work itself(i.e. the City of Cupertino
shall not necessarily accept art work based solely on the artist's overall reputation)
3. Style: An art work shall be compatible in scale, materials, form, and content with its
surroundings
4. Permanence: Consideration shall be given to structural and/or surface soundness,
resistance to theft, vandalism, weathering, and maintenance and repair costs
5. Public Liability: Each art work shall be examined and approved for safety conditions
and factors which may bear upon public liability
6. Variety: The overall Public Art Program shall consider variety in style, scale, and
materials
7. Technical Feasibility: (For purchases or commissions) Each proposed art work shall
be examined for convincing evidence of the artist's ability to successfully complete
the art work as proposed
8. Duplication: To assure that the art work will not be duplicated, the artist shall be
asked to warrant that the art work is unique and an edition of one, unless stated to the
contrary in the contract. (Multiples shall be considered for selection at the city's
discretion)
E. The city shall make no promises to exhibit art work permanently or to maintain art work
as the property of the city in perpetuity.
Acquisition Procedures
All potential acquisitions, whether gifts, donations, purchases, commissions, or loans of art to
the City of Cupertino must be reviewed by the Fine Arts Commission and approved by the
City Council or its designee.
Works of art may not be accepted if the city cannot provide for the display, storage,
protection and preservation of the work under conditions that insure its availability to the
public, and insure its permanency in the city's collection.
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Methods of acquisition shall include the following:
Direct purchase
Direct commission
Gift or Donation
Temporary Loan
Permanent Loan
Competition
Temporary Exhibit
Gifts
All items accepted as gifts by the City of Cupertino will become the exclusive and absolute
property of the City of Cupertino and may be displayed, loaned, retained or disposed of in the
best interests of the City of Cupertino.
The City of Cupertino will not, and shall not be required to carry any insurance against loss or
destruction of or damage to such item. The City of Cupertino will not be required to exercise
greater precautions for the care and the safety of such objects than it exercises with respect to its
own property of same or similar nature.
If the City of Cupertino decides not to accept the item and so notifies the owner, the owner has
sixty(60) days from the date of notification to reclaim the item. If the item is not reclaimed, the
City of Cupertino shall have the right to dispose of such property in any manner it may choose,
or to place it in storage at the owner's risk and expense.
The City of Cupertino may require a written order from the owner (or his duly authorized agent
or legal representative)before it returns the item described in the agreement.
See sample Gift Receipt on Page 9)
Title
Title to the works of art acquired for the permanent collection shall be transferred to the city of
Cupertino. A contract between the city and artist or agent will be entered for loaned art.
Copyright
Works of art acquired through the acquisition process described above shall require a copyright
agreement with the artist prior to acquisition, so that the city can make arrangements to use
reproductions of the work for publicity and professional purposes, without infringing on the
artist's copyright. Institutions or individuals interested in reproducing works of art in the City of
Cupertino collection shall contact the staff liaison to the Fine Arts Commission in writing to
request reproduction privileges.
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Placement and Exhibition
To ensure excellence in the work's physical embodiment of the principles of design, the
involvement of an art professional in aesthetic decision-making is desirable. Sited works will be
appropriate to the location, i.e. be proportionate in size and be appropriate for the setting. When
making a recommendation to the City Council, the Fine Arts Commission shall take into
consideration the site map of proposed city locations for artwork. Sited works may reflect the
history and culture of the area.
The following factors will be considered prior to placing art works:
Visibility
Lighting
Public safety
Traffic patterns (interior, exterior, pedestrian and auto)
Relationship to existing art work, architecture, and natural features in the vicinity
Future development plans for the area
See sample agreements on Page 11-13)
Access
Works of art from the city collection shall be on public view in locations accessible to
members of the public during regular business hours, unless other arrangements are agreed
upon between the artist and the city.
Preservation and Maintenance
The Fine Arts Commission will conduct regular inspections and inventory all items in the
collection to determine their condition and location, in order to identify any needed
maintenance or restoration.
Documentation
The Fine Arts Commission, with the assistance of the staff liaison, will develop and maintain
the archives and records of the city's collection (see sample Catalogue Form on Page 12)
Information provided by the artist shall include:
Photographs of work provided by the artist (preferably both digital and film)
Written description of work provided by the artist
Care and maintenance recommended by the artist
Condition of the artwork when received and upon regular inspection
Financial appraisal of the art work provided by the artist
Location and date of installation
A record of the purchase price and all correspondence pertaining to the artwork and
its acquisition
Artist's biography
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Information maintained by the city shall include:
An electronic catalogue entry of each object in the collection, (see sample Catalogue
Form in appendix)
All correspondence between the artist and the city
Insurance
Works of art that are on loan or temporary exhibit are insured as set forth in the contract
with the artist or agent. The contract shall provide a full description of the art work, and
insurance coverage shall include installation and removal of the art work as well as the
period of time when it is to be on loan or exhibit.
Deaccessioning Works of Art
Works of art that are the property of the City of Cupertino shall be deaccessioned or removed
following procedures pursuant to Civil Code 980 et seq.
This Civil Code includes Section 985, "Sale of Fine Art", which provides that the artist is due
5% of any proceeds if the art work is sold, and Section 987, "Protection of Fine Art,", which
protects artwork from destruction or alteration, and extends the legal rights of protection to
the artist's heirs or beneficiaries for 50 years after the artist's death.
Funds received by the City from the public sale of art works from the collection shall be
directed back to the purchase of works of art for the collection, or for the conservation of
objects in the collection.
See sample Bill of Sale on page 10)
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CITY OF CITY OF CUPERTINO
CUPEkTINO Gift Receipt
Possession of the art work listed on the face of this receipt is accepted by the City of Cupertino
subject to the following conditions:
1. All art work accepted by the City of Cupertino will become the exclusive and absolute
property of the City of Cupertino and may be displayed, retained, destroyed or disposed
of in the best interests of the City of Cupertino.
2. The City of Cupertino will not, and shall not be required to carry any insurance against
loss or destruction of or damage to such item. The City of Cupertino will not be required
to exercise greater precautions for the care and the safety of such art work than it
exercises with respect to its own property of same or similar nature.
3. The undersigned, herein called "Donor," hereby assigns, transfers and gives to the City of
Cupertino, herein called "City," its successors and assignees, the rights to the art work
described as follows: (Please provide all pertinent information in block letters)
Title Artist's name(s)
Materials/media Donor's estimated value
Dimensions Weight
4. The gift is made by Donor unconditionally and without the reservation of any right,
claims or interest in the above described personal property. Donor affirms that he/she
owns said artwork and that to the best of his/her knowledge, has good and complete right,
title and interest to give it to City. Donor hereby releases City from all liability with
respect to any loss or damages to the artwork referred to in this agreement. Donor agrees
that City shall not cover such artwork with insurance.
I have read and understand the conditions of the Gift Receipt.
DATE: DONOR SIGNATURE:
The City of Cupertino acknowledges receipt of your offer to give the City of Cupertino the item
described on this page. Formal notification of action on this offered gift will come after the
regular meeting of the Cupertino City Council.
DATE: CITY MANAGER SIGNATURE
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s •
CITY OF
CUPEkTINO CITY OF CUPERTINO
Bill of Sale
In consideration of the receipt of the sum of the receipt of which is
hereby acknowledged, the undersigned
residing at address: in the City of
County of State of California, hereby sells, assigns and transfers to
residing at address],
in the City of State of California, the following attached
insert description of art],
entitled "
Dated
Signature
Acknowledgement]
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CITY OF CITY OF CUPERTINO
I JPERJINO Art Exhibition Agreement
Artist)hereby deposits and loans the artwork described on the
attached Receipt to the City of Cupertino for exhibition in for the
period from to on the following terms and conditions:
Standard of Care: Unless otherwise agreed to by the Artist,the City will exercise the same care with
respect to the art referred to on the Receipt for Loan of Art(the"art") as it does in the safekeeping of
comparable property of its own.
Photography and Documentation: Unless the City is notified in writing to the contrary, the work(s)may
be photographed and reproduced for City's private purposes. The City assumes the right,unless
specifically denied by the Artist, to examine the work(s)by all modern photographic means available, and
it is understood and agreed that information thus gathered will remain confidential and will not be
published without the written consent of the Artist. Artist also recognizes and understands that the
exhibition will occur in a public place where public mee':ings and events will occur that are subject to
photography and other video recording as a matter of law, and Artist expressly permits incidental
photography or other video recording under such circumstances.
Return of Artwork: Art works accepted by the City on lean will not be returned to anyone other than the
Artist except upon receipt of written order from the Artist or Artist's duly authorized agent or legal
representative. The Artist shall not remove any of the artwork from the exhibition location during the
specified loan period without the written consent of the City. In the case of death or incapacity of the
Artist,the legal representative of the Artist is requested to notify the City as soon as possible, giving his
or her full name and address in writing.
The City may request the return to the Artist of any property deposited with it by written notice directed
to the Artist. If the City, after making reasonable efforts and through no fault of its own, shall be unable
to return the art within thirty(30) days of such notice,then the City shall have the absolute right to place
the art in storage and to charge removal fees and costs. ][f, after six(6)months, the art has not been
reclaimed, then in consideration for its storage and its efforts to safeguard the artwork during such period,
the work(s) shall be deemed an unrestricted gift to the City.
Even if the Artist does not remove the artwork on the date requested or on the date provided by this
Agreement, whichever is earlier, the City may proceed to remove the art work from exhibition and install
a different exhibition or store the Artist's artwork as provided in the previous paragraph.
Limit of Liability. Artist agrees and understands that Artist has designated the Artist's signed price of
each artwork item in the Receipt attached to this Loan Agreement and further agrees and understands that
in no event shall the City be liable to the Artist for any amount in excess of the itemized signed price for
any damage that may occur to any of the items of art. By accepting the artwork on loan, it is not implied
in any way that the City has accepted the signed price as the actual value of the artwork,but only that this
establishes the maximum liability of the City in exhibiting or storing the artwork.
The undersigned understands and accepts this agreement.
Artist Signature: Date:
Address: Phone:
Email:Fax:
1 1-
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CL J CITY OF CUPERTINO
CITY OF Right of Entry and Indemnification AgreementUPE(TINO for Publicly Displayed Artwork
This Right Entry and Indemnification Agreement ("Agreement") is made and entered into this
day of 2 , by and between the CITY OF CUPERTINO, a municipal
corporation of the State of California("City") and__ Exhibitor").
RECITALS
WHEREAS, City wishes to encourage activities designed to enhance the aesthetics of the City of
Cupertino; and
WHEREAS, City is the owner of certain property located at in the City
of Cupertino, County of Santa Clara("the Premises"); and
WHEREAS, Exhibitor desires to erect a piece of an on a portion of the Premises for the period
of to
NOW, THEREFORE, THE PARTIES HERETO AGREE AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. City grants to Exhibitor permission to enter upon that portion of the Premises
outlined in red on Exhibit A, attached hereto, for the purpose of erecting a piece of art entitled
The installation of the piece of art shall be at the sole cost and expense
of Exhibitor, and such costs shall include any City permit and other fees, which Exhibitor shall
pay on demand to City.
SECTION 2. The right of entry granted herein shall be effective as of and shall
terminate on
SECTION 3. The piece of art shall be maintained by Exhibitor at all times in a safe, neat, and
good physical condition. City shall be the sole judge of the quality of maintenance. If City is
not satisfied with the maintenance by Exhibitor, Exhibitor, upon receipt of written notice
submitted by the City through its City Manager which states in general terms the manner of
required maintenance, shall perform the required maintenance.
SECTION 4. Upon the expiration or earlier termination of this Agreement, Exhibitor, at his sole
cost and expense, agrees to immediately remove the piece of art from that portion of the
Premises and restore the site of the sculpture on the Premises to its original condition. If the
Exhibitor fails to exercise his duties under this Section, City shall have the right to remove the
piece of art, store it, and restore the Premises at no cost or liability to City. Exhibitor covenants
and agrees to reimburse City for any removal, storage, and/or restoration costs and expenses.
SECTION 5. The parties agree that City shall in no way be responsible for any loss of or
damage (including defacement) to the piece of art or for any property belonging to or rented by
Exhibitor, its officers, servants, agents, or employees that may be stolen, destroyed or in any way
damaged during the erection or maintenance of the piece of art at the site on the Premises.
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SECTION 6. Exhibitor agrees to indemnify, defend and hold harmless the City, its officers,
agents, servants and employees against any claims or suits for loss or damage to personal
property and damage or injury, including death, to any person or persons, arising out of or in
connection with the existence, maintenance, use, or location of the piece of art on the Premises,
whether or not caused, in whole or in part, by the alleged negligence of officers, agents, servants,
employees, contractors, subcontractors, licensees or invitees of Exhibitor or City. Exhibitor
agrees to assume all liability and responsibility of City, its officers, agents, servants and
employees for those suits or claims. Exhibitor agrees to indemnify City for any injury or damage
to the Premises, whether arising out of or in connection with any acts or omissions of Exhibitor
or his officers, agents, employees, contractors, subcontractors, licensees, or invitees or caused in
whole or in part by the alleged negligence of City's officers, agents, servants, employees,
contractors, subcontractors, licensees, or invitees.
SECTION 7. Exhibitors shall obtain and maintain until completion and acceptance of the work
required by this Agreement at least all of the minimum insurance requirements required by the
City's Risk Manager as specified in Exhibit B, attached hereto, prior to installation of the piece
of art. Exhibitor understands and agrees that such insurance amounts may be revised or waived
at any time at City's option, and Exhibitor agrees to comply with and provide any insurance
revisions requested by City within five (5) days following receipt of notice of those requirements
by Exhibitor.
SECTION 8. This Agreement is personal to Exhibitor and is not assignable, and any attempted
assignment of this Agreement shall terminate the privileges granted to Exhibitor under this
Agreement.
SECTION 9. Exhibitor agrees that if any action, whether real or asserted, at law or in equity, is
brought under this Agreement, venue for that action shall lie in the County of Santa Clara,
California.
SECTION 10. City and its agents and employees, at all times during the installation and erection
of the piece of art, shall have the right of entry and free access to the sculpture site and the right
to inspect all work done, labor performed and materials furnished in and about the sculpture site
and to inspect all aspects of the installation of the sculpture.
WITNESS THE EXECUTION HEREOF the day and year first herein above
written.
APPROVED AS TO FORM: CITY OF CUPERTINO, a municipal
Corporation
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s
City of CupertinonnwYp
CITY of Catalogue of Art and Sculpture
CUPERJINO
Description
Title:
Subject Matter&
Description:
Date of Artwork:
Dimensions:
Materials &
Condition:
Location(s):
Artist
Name:
Address:
Telephone: Fax:
Email: Website:
Notes:
Acquisition
Date:
Indicate method of acquisition:
Direct purchase
Direct commission
Gift or donation
Temporary loan/exhibit
Permanent loan
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Purchase price, if applicable:
Value (with date of appraisal, if applicable):
City of Cupertino ID number
Owner
Name:
Address:
Telephone: Fax:
Email:Website:
Notes:
Copyright Status
Maintenance
Recommended care and maintenance, and any special services or supplies necessary.
Condition (indicate the date the art was last inspected):
Images
Attach photographs and/or digital images
33
CITY OF CUPERTINO
Agenda Item
25-14169 Agenda Date: 7/28/2025
Agenda #: 3.
Subject: Presentation by Photographer and Cupertino resident Jean Zuo.
Receive a Presentation.
CITY OF CUPERTINO Printed on 7/23/2025Page 1 of 1
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
Agenda Item
25-14140 Agenda Date: 7/28/2025
Agenda #: 4.
Subject: 2025 Artist Awards Program and Theme Selection.
1. Receive a presentation on the 2025 Artist Awards Program.
2. Discuss and select a theme for the 2025 Artist Awards Program.
CITY OF CUPERTINO Printed on 7/23/2025Page 1 of 1
powered by Legistar™35
ARTS AND CULTURE COMMISSION STAFF REPORT
Meeting: July 28, 2025
Subject
2025 Artist Awards Program and Theme Selection
Recommended Action
1. Receive a presentation on the 2025 Artist Awards Program; and
2. Discuss and select a theme for the 2025 Artist Awards Program.
Discussion
Background
The purpose of the Arts and Culture Commission is to foster and encourage artistic
expression and achievement in the fields of visual, verbal, and performing arts while
preserving and advancing the arts for the benefit of the citizens of Cupertino. Every year
the commission presents awards to deserving artists in recognition of local talent in these
fields.
Prior to the 2024 Artist Awards Program, the Arts and Culture Commission requested to
review and provide feedback on the program materials. At the March 25, 2024 Arts and
Culture Commission meeting, City staff presented refinements to the artist awards
descriptions and application requirements in order to help clarify the process for
applicants and better manage the staff and commission time required during the
evaluation process. Additionally, the commission was also asked to provide feedback on
the artist awards evaluation forms. At the August 12, 2024 Arts and Culture Commission
special meeting, the commission unanimously approved the updated Artist Awards
Descriptions and Application Requirements (Attachment A) and updated Artist Awards
Evaluation Forms (Attachment B) for the three award categories: Distinguished Artist,
Emerging Artist, and Young Artist.
Next Steps
The 2025 Artist Awards Program will begin accepting online applications starting
Monday, September 1 and online submittals will be due by Wednesday, October 1 at 4:30
p.m. The full Artist Awards Program timeline can be found in Attachment C. Staff will
36
update the artist awards webpage (cupertino.gov/artawards), publicize the artist awards
on the City’s social media platforms, and send out eNotifications to past program
participants. Commissioners will also need to promote the Artist Awards Program
through personal outreach to their respective networks.
The theme for the 2025 Artist Awards Program will need to be discussed and finalized.
For reference, previous themes have included The Year 2020 - The New Normal, What Makes
Me Smile, A Day Without Screen Time, Your Dreams for the Future, Your Vision for the Future
of Cupertino, Artist’s Identity: What Influences You, and Building Sustainable Community. Staff
will then update the Artist Awards Program Flyers (Attachment D) with the chosen theme
and email the final version to the commission.
Sustainability Impact
No sustainability impact.
Fiscal Impact
No fiscal impact.
_____________________________________
Prepared by: Jessica Suntay, Administrative Assistant
Reviewed and Approved for Submission by: Rachelle Sander, Director of Parks and
Recreation
Attachments:
A – Artist Awards Descriptions and Application Requirements
B – Artist Awards Evaluation Forms
C – Artist Awards Program Timeline
D – Artist Awards Program Flyers
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Artist Awards Descriptions and Application Requirements
Distinguished Artist Award Description
The Distinguished Artist Award recognizes established artists having a substantial body of work
that display merit and excellence, as well as a history of contributions to their artistic field and
the community. Prior winners of the Distinguished Artist Award have taught art classes,
participated in shows or performances, and won awards for their work.
Applicants for the Distinguished Artist Award will be evaluated on their use of media, tools,
design and composition of their submitted portfolio. The Commission will be looking to see if
the artist has demonstrated a high level of skill and ability in the selected techniques for the
pieces chosen for their submitted portfolio. Creativity and originality will also be observed and
evaluated, including connection to the award program theme.
All applicants must include a written personal statement that includes goals, education,
training, volunteerism, community involvement and any achievements or awards.
Applicants can participate in any of the following artistic categories: Visual Arts, Performing Arts,
Literary Arts, or Digital Arts.
There is a cash award of $1000 for the Distinguished Artist platinum winner (1st place). To
receive funds, a completed W-9 will be requested.
How to Apply
• Who may apply: Artists must live in Cupertino or attend high school, college and/or art
school physically located within Cupertino.
• Deadline: Applications must be submitted by Wednesday, October 1 at 4:30 p.m.
• Complete Online Application HERE
Online Application Requirements
1. Submitted Application
2. Personal Statement (maximum 1 page)
3. One letter of endorsement and/or support, which includes relationship to artist.
4. Digital portfolio: (saved as PDF, JPG, JPEG, or PNG)
*At least one piece in the portfolio must connect to the 2025 award program theme:
2025 Artist Awards Theme - “[INSERT HERE]”
Artists submitting visual art can include up to three pieces that best represent the artists’ body
38
of work. Performing artists’ may submit no more than five minutes worth of performances, film
entries may submit no more than five minutes worth of film, and literary artists’ may submit no
more than a total of five pages. Artificial Intelligence (AI) generated art is strictly prohibited.
Submitting pieces from a previous Artist Awards submission is highly discouraged.
5. Resume and exhibition record (if any and maximum 2 pages)
Winners who receive cash awards must:
• Be willing to work with the Arts and Culture Commission to promote the arts in the
community through participation in one or more events designed for that purpose.
• Acknowledge the recognition of the City of Cupertino on any printed advertising,
programs or brochures they produce related to the award.
Questions? Please email artistawards@cupertino.gov
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Emerging Artist Award Description
The Emerging Artist Award was established to encourage and recognize demonstrations of
artistic promise. This award recognizes younger artists as well as those rediscovering their love
of artistic expression later in life.
Applicants for the Emerging Artist Award will be evaluated on their use of media, tools and
working materials. The Commission will also be looking for evidence of creative thought and
originality in the artists’ submitted portfolio, including connection to the award program theme.
All applicants must include a written personal statement that includes goals, education,
training, volunteerism, community involvement and any achievements or awards.
Applicants can participate in any of the following artistic categories: Visual Arts, Performing Arts,
Literary Arts, or Digital Arts.
There is a cash award of $750 for the Emerging Artist platinum winner (1st place). To receive
funds, a completed W-9 will be requested.
How to Apply
• Who may apply: Artists must live in Cupertino or attend high school, college and/or art
school physically located within Cupertino.
• Deadline: Applications must be submitted by Wednesday, October 1 at 4:30 p.m.
• Complete Online Application HERE
Online Application Requirements
1. Submitted Application
2. Personal Statement (maximum 1 page)
3. One letter of endorsement and/or support, which includes relationship to artist.
4. Digital portfolio: (saved as PDF, JPG, JPEG, or PNG file)
*At least one piece in the portfolio must connect to the 2025 award program theme:
2025 Artist Awards Theme - “[INSERT HERE]”
Artists submitting visual art can include up to three pieces that best represent the artists’ body
of work. Performing artists’ may submit no more than five minutes worth of performances, film
entries may submit no more than five minutes worth of film, and literary artists’ may submit no
more than a total of five pages. Artificial Intelligence (AI) generated art is strictly prohibited.
Submitting pieces from a previous Artist Awards submission is highly discouraged.
40
5. Resume and exhibition record (if any and maximum 2 pages)
Winners who receive cash awards must:
• Be willing to work with the Arts and Culture Commission to promote the arts in the
community through participation in one or more events designed for that purpose.
• Acknowledge the recognition of the City of Cupertino on any printed advertising,
programs or brochures they produce related to the award.
Questions? Please email artistawards@cupertino.gov
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Young Artist Award Description
Each year the Commission presents awards to deserving young artists in recognition of local
achievements in the visual arts in the following age groups:
Group A: 6-10 years old
Group B: 11-14 years old
Awards: Three awards (Platinum, Gold, and Silver) are given to each age group. Additionally, a
cash prize of $150 is awarded to the Platinum winner.
Rules:
• All applicants must live in Cupertino or attend an educational institution or art school
physically located within Cupertino. Only one entry per artist will be allowed.
• Artwork must be completed by the young artists only – parents and teachers cannot
assist or participate in the production of the art.
• Artwork that does not fit the contest theme and/or does not contest parameters will not
be considered.
• Artists may use a medium of their choice including digitally created still art. Artificial
Intelligence (AI) generated art is strictly prohibited. Original artwork may be requested at
a later date for public display.
• Artwork and completed application must be submitted by Wednesday, October 1 at 4:30
p.m.
Evaluation Criteria: The primary criteria for both age groups will be how effectively and/or
creatively the applicant has communicated the contest theme. Evidence of originality as well as
effective use of media and tools will also be considered.
The theme of the 2025 award program is:
“[INSERT HERE”
Complete Online Application HERE
Questions? Please email artistawards@cupertino.gov
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
DISTINGUISHED ARTIST AWARD EVALUATION FORM
Artist Name
Commissioner Name
Evaluate the submission on each of the four evaluation criteria indicated below, from 5 points (high)
to 1 point (low).
Total Points__________/20
- Has the artist demonstrated a high level of skill
and/or ability in the selected techniques that they
have chosen for their artwork? Do the pieces
display an effective use of tools, methods, and
working materials? Has the artist used materials
and skills to effectively portray what they are
trying to convey?
Design and Composition
- Observe the totality of the artists portfolio. Consider if
the following elements and principles are evident in
their work. Note that not all principles will apply to
every medium.
o *Principles: Unity, Balance,
Rhythm/Movement, Emphasis, Contrast
o *Elements: Line, Shape, Space, Form, Color,
Value, Texture
o *For additional guidance on the principles and
elements, see below the criteria table.
Creativity and Originality
- Is the work executed in a manner that is unique to the
idea expressed? Is there evidence of creative thought?
How well has the artist conveyed the contest theme?
- Does the personal statement include goals,
education, training, volunteerism, community
involvement, and/or achievements and awards?
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Design and Composition
Observe the totality of the artists portfolio. Consider if the following elements and principles are evident
in their work. Note that not all the principles will apply to every medium.
Principles
Unity: Do the parts work as a whole? Consider the marks, shapes, colors, values, and textures.
Balance: Is there an equal distribution of visual weight? Has symmetrical or asymmetrical balance been created in the
shapes, colors, textures, and values?
Rhythm/Movement: Is there fluidity of form in three-dimensional works? Are there shapes or directional lines to
connect pieces within two-dimensional works? Does your eye travel around the entire picture plane?
Emphasis: Is there a defined focal point or center of interest?
Contrast: Is there a variety of values, shapes, colors, lines and textures?
Elements
Line: Is there variety of line? Have lines been used to create texture, perspective, or movement?
Shape: Is there variety of shape? Are the shapes used been successfully created and used in the work?
Space: Has the illusion of foreground, middle ground, and background shape been successfully created?
Form: Has the illusion of depth been successfully created in two-dimensional works? Have appropriate figures
been used to represent the ideas within three-dimensional works?
Color: Is there a variety of color? Have colors been used to create space or emotion?
Value: Is there a defined light source? Have highlights, shadows, and cast shadows been included in the art?
Texture: Are there visual or tactile surface characteristics in the work? Does it have a variety of texture and interesting
patterns?
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
EMERGING ARTIST AWARD EVALUATION FORM
Artist Name
Commissioner Name
Evaluate the submission on each of the three evaluation criteria indicated below, from 5 points (high)
to 1 point (low).
Total Points__________/15
- Do the pieces display an effective use of tools,
methods, and working materials? Has the artist
used materials and skills to make an effective
piece for what they are trying to convey?
Creativity and Originality
- Is the work executed in a manner that is unique to the
idea expressed? Is there evidence of creative thought?
How well has the artist conveyed the contest theme?
Personal Statement
- Does the personal statement include goals,
education, training, volunteerism, community
involvement, and/or achievements and awards?
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CITY OF CUPERTINO
YOUNG ARTIST AWARD EVALUATION FORM
Artist Name
Commissioner Name
Evaluate the submission on each of the three evaluation criteria indicated below, from 5 points (high)
to 1 point (low).
Evaluation Criteria Points Notes
Media/Tools
- Has the artist demonstrated a level of skill and
ability in the selected techniques? Does the piece
display an effective use of tools, methods, and
working materials? Has the artist used materials
and skills to make an effective piece for what they
are trying to convey?
Creativity
- How well has the artist conveyed the contest
theme? Is there evidence of creative thought?
Can it be understood by others?
- How well does the artist showcase their
individuality in the piece?
Total Points__________/15
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ARTIST AWARDS PROGRAM TIMELINE
ARTS AND CULTURE COMMISSION This is an estimated annual timeline of events for the Arts and
Culture Commission Artist Awards Program.
JULY
AUGUST
SEPTEMBER
OCTOBER
NOVEMBER
JANUARY
NOTES
Commissioners Discuss and Finalize:
- Artist Awards Theme
Commissioners start outreach and inform their respective networks that the Artist
Awards Applications will open in September.
Artist Awards Applications Open on September 1
- Artist Awards announced on City website, social media platforms, and
eNotifications to past participants
- Commissioners continue marketing
Artist Awards Applications Close on October 1 at 4:30 p.m.
Commissioners select award winners at the November Arts and Culture
Commission meeting and staff notifies winners.
Commission recognizes and presents awards to selected winners at the January
Arts and Culture Commission Artist Awards Ceremony and Art Exhibition.
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Are You an Artist,
Musician, Writer,
Actor, Photographer,
or Dancer?
Every year the City of Cupertino's Arts and
Culture Commission chooses a Distinguished
Artist and an Emerging Artist who lives or
attends school in the City. You are invited to
submit your portfolio. At least one piece in the
portfolio must connect to this year's theme:
[INSERT THEME]
If selected, you will receive public recognition
and a cash award.
It's easy to apply.
Online application and a detailed description
of the contests are available at
cupertino.gov/artawards.
Submit your entry by Wednesday,
October 1 at 4:30 p.m.
Questions? Email to
artistawards@cupertino.gov
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ARE YOU A YOUNG ARTIST?
The City of Cupertino's Arts
and Culture Commission is
looking for outstanding young
Cupertino artists to submit
their artwork for the Young
Artist Awards.
Winners receive public
recognition and a cash
award.
It’s easy to apply!
Get the award rules
and apply online at
cupertino.gov/artawards and
submit your entry digitally by
Wednesday, October 1 at
4:30 p.m.
There will be one platinum
award for each of
two categories:
Group A: 6-10 years old
Group B: 11-14 years old
Your artwork will be judged on
how effectively and creatively
you’ve communicated this
year's theme of:
“[INSERT THEME]"
Questions? Email to
artistawards@cupertino.gov
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