IT IS SAID that the best laid plans of mice and men can sometimes go awry. Such was the case in regard to the statue placed in the middle of Key Route Boulevard to welcome travellers entering our city from El Cerrito. While the statue presented a charming introduction to Albany, it soon became painfully clear that the material used to make it (some sort of plaster-like material) was woefully inadequate to withstand the attentions of school kids and others who congregated near it.
The first problem occurred in early March when someone broke the leapfrogging girl off at the wrists. The repair at that time consisted of a six foot wooden pole driven into the ground behind her, and a crude brace screwed into her at a point which modesty prevents this publication from namely specifically. Hardly a repair to be proud of or a proper way to treat public art..
Later, a less obtrusive repair was made, but this time at the expense of the little boy, who received four bolts in addtion to the two in the girl. The statue was now held together by two metal straps.
The latest (and apparently terminal) misfortune this statue occurred when someone broke off the girl's feet and made away with them. A "Dedication/Memorial Serivce" for the sculpture is scheduled at the site for 4 p.m.on April 28. Folks are encouraged to attend and bring their suggestions "about how public art can survive in Albany".
Albany Central isn't smart enough to answer this question. And we know that people are genuinely upset about what happened here. But we must point out that taking a "sculpture" (similar ones are or have been available at Target for around $130) designed to reside happily in some secluded spot in the back of your garden, and place it on school property between Albany High School and Albany Middle School, is asking for trouble. Surely this can't be construed as a valid reflection of the prevailing attitude in Albany toward public art. Properly designed and placed public art will survive here just fine.
Repair
