Alexis Dubree

(ALLEN, Texas – February, 24 2024) In an effort to add art to Allen’s public spaces, the Allen Public Art Committee deliberated over three potential artists to design art for the upcoming Bark Yard dog park at their monthly February meeting.

            The committee of twelve invited three finalists for the project, Jeffie Brewer, Joseph O’Connell with Creative Machines, and Pete Goldlust and Melanie Germond, to present their artistic renderings and proposals. Afterward, they discussed the pros and cons of each design.  

            In Mid-2023, artists from all over the country could submit an artistic proposal that worked within Bark Yard’s structural guidelines and $350,000 budget. The three finalists the committee was considering were selected from a semi-final round consisting of six artists at the end of last year.

            Chairwoman of the Public Art Committee, Cindy Wheeler, enthused about the project and what it could add to the community.

             “The concepts we went over today, I think it’s going to help bring the community together, all the dog lovers in our community together,” chairwoman Wheeler said about the Bark Yard presentations.

            “I look for pieces that the community can enjoy,” Wheeler said. “I look for pieces that they can take selfies with since that’s such a huge concept in our world today. I’m also looking for pieces that are sustainable, that lasts a long time, that our park and recreation department doesn’t have to do a lot of maintenance with, that’s very important.”

            Nacogdoches-based artist Jeffie Brewer, one of the three finalists, eagerly submitted and presented his vision for the Bark Yard.

            “I think it’s my use of vibrant colors, subtle abstraction, and a distinctive style that captures people’s attention,” Brewer said. “Maybe an ability to infuse emotion and a little whimsey sets me apart.”

            Brewer, who has designed and installed countless public art pieces across the country, said that he believes cities should continue to fund public art because it gives everyone the chance to enjoy art.

            “Art, at its core, defines our humanity, for me transcending the notion that it’s exclusive,” Brewer said. “Public art, accessible and free, breaks down barriers like location and cost, making it art for everyone, a simple and beautiful thing.”

             Allen resident, mother, and dog owner Jaclyn Afyouni didn’t think the presence of public art would impact her decision to visit the Bark Yard, but she thought it would be cool to have.

“What I value most about Allen’s public spaces are their safety, cleanliness and interactive qualities as a mother to a young child,” Afyouni said. “Something with scenery and something for kids to play with would be ideal. In the summer, covering is important as well.”

            Once the committee decides on an artist, their selection will be recommended to the city council for final approval. The final decision date is still unknown at this time.