Launceston's $1 million public artwork divides town, nicknamed 'coconuts'
Launceston's $1 million state-funded Sky Vessels installation drew immediate public backlash for resembling 'giant space coconuts'.
Launceston's new public art entrance, the Sky Vessels installation, sparked public controversy when built this month. The state government funded the $1 million artwork for the main road into the city.
Forty artists submitted designs to City of Launceston. The council presented two options for public vote.
Sky Vessels symbolises the city's three main waterways. It narrowly beat Kanamaluka Kanalaritja, an image of shell necklaces made by Aboriginal women.
Of the 1,060 total votes, 394 came from outside Launceston. Early social media reaction was negative.
People called the structure 'giant space coconuts'. Others compared it to chocolate products.
Scores of commenters said it was a waste of taxpayer money.
- $1 million
- Public artwork cost
- 40
- Artists who submitted designs
- 1,060
- Total votes cast
- 394
- Votes from outside Launceston
Why it mattersPublic art funded by tax dollars can divide residents. It can do this even when the community votes on it. It raises questions about selection processes.
AustraliaShows ongoing debate about art funding and spending priorities in regional Australian cities.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 11 d ago
