With Koons Piece Approved, Sacramento Now Seeking Local Artwork For Kings Arena
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — After the Sacramento City Council approved a controversial plan to spend $8 million on an outside artist's work for the new downtown arena.
Now the city is promising local artists more than $1 million to showcase their art. But many of those artists are asking questions about how the selection process works.
Local artist Kim Squalia is thrilled the city is stepping up to fund local artists.
"I think a good public project is sort of a love letter to the city," she said.
In addition to an $8 million piece by international artist Jeff Koons, $1.5 million has been set aside by the city. Part of that comes from a $1 million private donation by Marci Friedman.
A number of local artists like Squalia are eager to submit their work and hope to be chosen, but many artists have never submitted for a city project and need help applying. The city has agreed to help.
The decision will be in the hands of the arts commission, which will come up with an art plan.
While large-money art like the Koons piece can be controversial, Sacramento City Councilman Steve Hansen says it will be a boost for the entire community.
"To have a splash of color here or something fun to experience when you're having a bad day, it lifts us all in a way that makes the city more joyous to live in and more inspiring to be part of.