Biddeford Public Arts Commission will create master plan

The City of Biddeford has approved a new ordinance to establish a Public Arts Commission.

The Public Arts Commission ordinance was approved unanimously by the City Council on Tuesday night, with Councilor Roger Beaupre absent.

Councilor Doris Ortiz said the development of the commission will help Biddeford “step up its game,” and she was excited to see how the commission will help beautify the city.

“This is going to bring Biddeford up to the next level. This is very important to our community. This is very important for economic development,” she said.

Councilor Norman Belanger noted that art has been a big part of the city’s recent renaissance. He said the ordinance recognizes the importance of art in the city and sets a framework in place for public art.

Members of the seven-person board will be appointed by the mayor, and will either live or work in Biddeford. At least three of the members will have expertise in art, cultural or humanities; and one member will be a representative from the City Council. Commission members will serve three-year, staggered terms. In addition to the seven members, there will be  a non-voting student-representative on the commission.

The commission will establish a public art master plan which will identify and recommend public places and establish criteria for selection, placement, and maintenance of public art.

“By moving this forward, you’re showing everyone that has eyes on Biddeford that you really care about the arts and what the arts can do for the community,” said local artist Rebecca Cote. “It’s not just about putting some pretty things here and there, it’s not just about aesthetics. It’s about giving and showing the diversity of voices in our community, and offering opportunities for self-expression, which generates a greater health and wellness in our community.”

Saco Bay News Publisher Liz Gotthelf can be reached at newsdesk@sacobaynews.com.