The future of a controversial blue artwork proposed for Mount Gambier’s CBD is up in the air, with a decision to be made at tonight’s City Council meeting.
Councillor Paul Jenner has lodged a notice of motion to revoke the council’s decision to approve the blue figure, and instead proposed to retain the Beacon Arts Project going forward, but with more community consultation.
The “blue blob” has attracted widespread criticism from the community, with concerns raised about its appearance, cost and initial proposed location.
Since council’s resolution, there has been significant interest in the work, the Beacon Art Project and its potential location.
Social media has seen substantial commentary primarily in opposition to the project, but with some support.
Cr Jenner is also proposing that council continue to support public artworks and artists in a variety of forms, both large and small-scale and continue to work on fostering a vibrant arts and cultural scene in Mount Gambier.
His motion calls for $116,497 to stay in the Beacon Art budget and the consideration of additional funding in the 2025/26 budget process.
He has recommended that Huna Studios be thanked for the works completed and council staff would be authorised to negotiate an appropriate settlement for works already completed.
Meanwhile, if the motion fails then councillors will consider a second report on Tuesday night to decide on the sculpture’s location.
The preferred location is adjacent to the Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre on Bay Road, while a second option is the corner of Bay Road and Commercial Street.
Several other locations were considered for the sculpture, however those spots were excluded for consideration due to a range of factors.
The Beacon Art Project report, written by Riddoch Arts and Cultural Centre and Cultural Development director Ashleigh Whatling, states council has received in the order of 51 official pieces of correspondence.
“The key themes were about the cost of the work, the merits of the design and relevance to the city, use of a local artist, and the timing of an art project in the face of cost of living pressures,” Ms Whatling said.
“A substantial number of these letters and emails called for the council to reconsider the decision.
“Two of the correspondents expressed support for the arts and the intention behind the work.”
Ms Whatling said all correspondence received has or will be provided to all councillors for consideration.
The Beacon Art Project report can be viewed in the November meeting agenda, available online.
