The city’s Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy is seeking input from Philadelphians about just what should be done with the statue of former Philadelphia mayor, Frank Rizzo, that has recently become a focal point of controversy.
In a statement released Thursday, city officials said that, from now until 5 p.m. on September 15, the city will be accepting idea submissions for the future of Rizzo’s statue, currently located on the steps of the Municipal Services Building Plaza on John F. Kennedy Boulevard, between 15th and Broad Streets.
According to the statement, “diverse representatives” from the city’s Office of Arts Culture and Creative Economy, Department of Public Property, Managing Director’s Office, Department of Parks and Recreation and the Mayor’s Office will review the public’s submissions.
The statement notes that the city isn’t looking for opinions on the statue’s current location, but is instead looking for the best ideas for what should be done with the statue in the future.
After reviewing the public’s submissions, the statement notes that the administration will decide in late September whether or not the city will utilize policy for removing, relocating or deaccessioning public art.
If invoked, the policy requires the Kenney administration to provide the artist with a 30-day notice period.
At the conclusion of the 30-day notice period, the city’s Art Commission would call a public hearing to vote on just what the city would propose be done with Rizzo’s statue. Also, there will be time for public testimony before the Art Commission on any proposal.
Anyone interested in submitting ideas is encouraged can submit them online here or they can be sent through the mail to the Office of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy’s Ideas for Rizzo’s Future at 116 City Hall, Philadelphia, PA, 19107.
