The cost of the 900 South roundabout whale sculpture is $100,000. To paint it is another $7,500. Now, mind you, I’m not against spending money on public art. I’m a big fan of it. It’s necessary to the vibrancy of a city and adds character to places that would otherwise be “Anytown, USA.” Don’t get me started on Salt Lake City’s downtown. What I am against is spending money on any public art that lacks creativity, a good design sense, proper placement, and overall interest — like a landlocked whale.
I think our local arts councils need to be shaken up a bit and replaced with people who possess at least a modicum of appreciation for good design — rather than those who get excited when the Hobby Lobby coupons arrive.
Scott Perry, Salt Lake City