LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) – If you’ve been around the Fayette County Courthouse in the past few months, you may have noticed construction.
That’s because the city has commissioned the largest piece of artwork ever for Lexington.
The sculpture was proudly dedicated by the city Wednesday, but some community members aren’t fans of the work.
Community reactions vary widely
“I think it’s nice,” said one resident when asked about the piece.
“It kind of looks like a necklace tangled up and twisted,” said another.
“It’s an interesting, more modern art piece. I think that art is subjective,” another resident said.
“I think it’s a little abstract but I really enjoy it,” said one observer.
The $900,000 sculpture celebrating Lexington’s 250th birthday warrants mixed reactions for people living here.
The high-price-tag sculpture was unanimously approved by city council last summer. Today, it was dedicated.
Artist and officials celebrate dedication
“‘A Common Thread’ represents a significant commitment to public art here in Lexington,” said Mayor Linda Gorton.
Benjamin Ball, the artist from California who was tapped to build this sculpture, said the work has deeper meaning.
“The work is a loom for shared identity. A place where past and future are held together by ‘A Common Thread,’” Ball said.
Local artist questions choice and cost
Local artist and resident Cassandra Vogl says all the talent needed for a project like this is already in Kentucky.
“I would’ve loved to see an art piece that was Kentucky designed and Kentucky made. We have a lot of talent here in Lexington and throughout the Bluegrass and I would have really loved to see them highlighted,” Vogl said.
The $900,000 price tag also is a cause for concern for her.
“That’s a lot. You know, when that’s coming from public funds I’d like to see public input at a price tag that high,” Vogl said.
Some residents just appreciate the effort.
“Art costs a lot so the price tag doesn’t bug me. With art, it’s always nice when it’s local but to be honest it’s about what can make the best thing for this city? Is that a local person, a national person, an international person? I think it’s okay that it can be any of those things,” said Kevin Jenkins, a resident.
“You can’t put a price tag on art, but apparently you can!” Vogl said.
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