Virtual Event: MN State Capitol Public Engagement Task Force Discovery Meeting
A community conversation about public memorials, monuments and art at our State Capitol. Hosted by the Anderson Center & Gita Ghei.
This is an opportunity to provide input and to be a part of the future of our Capitol – discussing how community identity and shared values are displayed in this most public space. We are excited to hear from you! What are your thoughts?
The meeting will consist of brief introductions, a slide show, hearing from attendees on how they experience and perceive the Capitol, and discussion of key questions such as – do you feel your community is reflected there?; what can change or stay the same?; what values must lead the work of placing monuments, memorials and art in this most public space, that belongs truly to all Minnesotans?
Please pre-register HERE for this free conversation via Eventbrite. We will then send out a meeting link closer to the day of.
If you cannot attend our meeting, please take the survey, available in the languages of Somali, Hmong, English, Spanish. Here is the Survey Link.
If you would like to learn more about the memorials, monuments and art of The Minnesota State Capitol before the meeting – here are a few links:
• The Capitol building, its history and ART
• Current EXHIBITS inside the Capitol thanks to the work of the Capitol Art Exhibits Advisory Committee (CAEAC)
• The Capitol Area Architecture and Planning Board (CAAPB) page for outdoor MONUMENTS, which includes a link to a virtual tour.
Who ‘We’ are:
A 14-member Task Force creating space for members of the public to share experiences about what the Capitol means to them. We are seeking feedback on how the monuments, memorials and works of art on the grounds and the interior reflect Minnesotans and our values. We will provide the decision-making board (CAAPB) with a report on ideas and ideals, values and themes that arise in our survey and in virtually hosted conversations. We hope to hear from as many Minnesotans, all ages, all people, as possible!
The Anderson Center, in its historic setting of Tower View, offers residencies in the arts and humanities; provides a dynamic environment for the exchange of ideas; encourages the pursuit of creative endeavors; and serves as a source of significant contributions to society. Located on the western edge of Red Wing, Minnesota, the Anderson Center is one of the largest artist communities in the upper Midwest. The organization runs an interdisciplinary Artist-in-Residence Program, serves local artists through studio space rentals & presentation opportunities, and provides aesthetic & intellectual programs to a tri-state region.
The Anderson Center believes that the arts are a vital part of society and works to bring people and ideas together in a spirit of welcome for all. The organization values equity and is committed to building a fair and just community, and is excited to partner with the Capitol Area Architectural and Planning Board Advisory Task Force on Public Engagement to bring Minnesotans’ voices, visions, and values to the conversation about art and planning for our state capitol building.
Task Force Members, including sculptor Gita Ghei, come from many diverse backgrounds, including art and architecture related fields, arts and community organizations. Gita has previously worked as a public sculpture technician at the Capitol Mall, and as a teacher, has led student tours of the work with included discussion about public art and conservation.