Artwork to grace the new $12.4 million Aptos Library under construction will be created by artist Lea de Wit, who proposed two series of glass and steel sculptural panels inspired by the sea to the redwoods theme.
The first series of panels are to comprise the fence line in the teen courtyard, with blue waves,inspired by nearby Monterey Bay flowing through the fence line.
The artist, who lives in Boulder Creek, plans to collaborate with the library’s Advisory Council of Teens to solicit ideas for engaging Aptos High School art students to propose additional bay imagery.
The second series, to flank the Children’s Garden, will consists of two pairs of panels inspired by the flora and fauna in the redwoods in Aptos.
A sample of the planned art by Lea de Wit to be displayed when the Aptos Public Library opens.
Last month, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors approved a contract with de Wit of up too $106,000 to design, fabricate, and install the artwork at the library, which will encompass 12,400-square feet when finished.
The Department of Parks, Open Space and Cultural Services is overseeing the project.
Artists were invited to submit proposals. The County Arts Commission formed a panel, which met in February and March 2022 to select an artist. After the artists’ presentation, the panel selected Cheney Metals, Inc. of Watsonville, and the Board of Supervisors approved on May 24.
In September 2022, Cheney Metals requested the contract be terminated.
The selection panel then met with de Wit, a finalist from the first round, recommending her proposal t to the Arts Commission, which voted Nov. 7 to send it to the supervisors.