London Stalling

Seems that in order to get a sculptural work in London one must pass strict scrutiny of the Westminster Public Art Advisory Committee. The committee has banned works from Anthony Caro, Banksy, and a bronze statute of Ronald Reagan on the Berlin Wall.

The influential panel deals in the high numbers of public art applications. Its members are drawn from institutions such as the Royal Academy of Art. A negative view usually forces artists to review their plans or kill them altogether.

One wonders if an Olafur Eliasson leaking pipe would pass muster. After all, it’s only $15 million and it comes with lights, fireworks, tourists and hot dogs!