The Edmond Visual Arts Commission voted to continue a request for funds for a statue of Jesus with three children until the city attorney draws up guidelines for acceptable art projects.
Karen Morton, the owner of Sacred Heart Catholic Gifts at 15 S Broadway told the commission she’s raised $3,900, or half of the businesses share for the 26-inch tall statue titled “Come To Me” by Tulsa artist Rosalind Cook.
“We chose this one because of the theme downtown of statues with children,” she said. “We felt like that stayed within the concept of what is already there.”
The commission funds half of the cost of selection, display and maintenance of public art projects. Taxpayer’s dollars would fund half of the statue’s $7,800 price tag.
Commission members were reluctant to vote on the project which was first tabled in June until city manager Steve Murdock had a chance to study and recommend public art guidelines that would address issues such as works of art which have as its primary purpose, the promotion of religion.
Commission member Jena Mottola said without guidelines in hand, the commissioners were “in a sticky situation.”
“We should already have these guidelines in place but I don’t think we should be pressured to make a decision because the price of bronze might increase,” she said.
Commission member David Woods said he didn’t want to make a decision just yet. “I was in favor of continuing this last time because I had hoped to see some resolution over the last 30 days,” he said.
In May, the commission sold its stake in a statue of Moses to avoid perception it's violating the separation of church and state.
The commission will not meet in August but will request that Murdock have a first draft for them to consider in September.
