A new public art installation in the city is sparking a debate online. The sculpture is an interpretation of a chinook arch and is being built in Barb Scott Park in the southwest.
The $370-thousand project was designed by an American company, and will be officially unveiled in June.
It’s the largest piece of public art installed in Calgary, but not the only one that’s come under fire.
Many people had lots to say about the Travelling Light sculpture, which has also been dubbed “The Big O” and “The Blue Hula Hoop.”
The giant blue circle sits above the new 96th Avenue N.E. extension, and cost $471-thousand.
Even Mayor Naheed Nenshi chimed in about that project, saying he supports the public art policy but wasn’t a huge fan of the piece.
Currently, the city sets aside one per cent of any project’s capital budget for a public art component; the Chinook Arc is part of Barb Scott Park.
Some have questioned whether the policy around public art needs to change; in December, city council decided it will conduct a review of the policy, including funding and involving the public.
The report to council is due in May.
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