The City of Reno worked with artists and artist-led design teams to develop a large-scale public art project that comprises multiple artworks and locations for artwork at the new Moana Springs Community Aquatics and Fitness Center.   

Artist Selection

The public process started with an open call in June of 2023 for qualifications from which the City of Reno Arts & Culture department with the Reno Arts and Culture Commission selected five artists/artist teams to develop proposals for public art to be installed in the new Moana Springs Community Aquatics & Fitness Center.

• November 2023 – Artists/artists teams finalist presentations the City of Reno

• December 2023 - Finalist presentations the City of Reno collected community input through a public survey the results of which were used by the artists/artist teams to inform their proposals

• February 2024 - Artists/artist teams presented their final proposals for the Moana Springs Community Aquatic and Fitness Center. Following the five finalist proposals the City of Reno solicited public feedback with a survey asking for feedback on proposed projects.

• April 10, 2024 - City of Reno Councilmembers approved the unanimous recommendations from the Reno Arts and Culture Commission (RACC) and the Public Art Committee (PAC) to select Michele Gutlove to create public art for the new Moana Springs Community Aquatics & Fitness Center.

About the Artist 

Michele Gutlove is a glass artist and architect based in Massachusetts. She has been working with glass for over twenty years. In her own words: “After becoming an architect, I discovered glass making, and felt like I had grown wings. When I was awarded my first permanent art commission, the possibilities of creating three-dimensional glass to fill a specific space and dance in changing light was absolutely thrilling.” She has completed over 40 public installations.  

Gutlove earned a Bachelor of Architecture degree (1983) from the University of Oregon and a Master of Architecture and Structural Engineering degree from Arizona State University. 

The exterior and interior art were inspired by the setting, nestled within view of several mountain ranges. The art will be uniquely of its place, with the actual mountain ranges interpreted into glass, stainless steel, and light, according to Gutlove’s project proposal. 

If you have questions or would like more information, please email publicart@reno.gov. 

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