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Thoughts about Ventura's aesthetics, visual culture, public art program, and more.

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Art in Proper Places

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Contributed by: Wendy Halderman on 9/3/2007

Regarding Ventura's public art program, I would like to see the focus change from "Art in Public Places" to "Art in Proper Places."

To wit....

Auguste Rodin's "Thinking Man" is a fine classic sculpture. But I certainly wouldn't install it in a World Wrestling Federation arena.

Robert Mapplethorpe's sensual photographs are amazing. But I certainly wouldn't install them in a children's park.

Edvard Munch's "The Scream" is a delightful example of expressionism, but placing it near a medical facility would--needless to say--be a huge gaffe.

AND....

Dennis Oppenheim's "Bus Home" is masterful in its post-modern whimsy. But...installing it as a "transit center" in a relatively sleepy part of town?...It is like showing up at a business meeting dressed in a clown suit.

This playful piece would have worked well as a counterpoint in a bustling urban environment with high-rise buildings. As a grand testament to man's construction accomplishments and unfettered creativity, it is best suited to an area where these ideas flourish. Or, as a colorful and unexpected sculpture in a wooded park.

Bus Home says loudly: Play!...Have fun!...Be a child again! Its dynamic qualities are lost, however, due to the subdued and uncomplementary environment in which it was placed. Ideally this piece would have functioned as a welcome and enthusiastic reminder to enjoy life. Instead--its grandeur misapplied--it plays out as a mocking harassment.

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