NYC’s most controversial public art projects

• price tag of $21 million (the project was funded through private organizations, not the city, so the exact cost is not known), The Gates was a massive undertaking that used more than 1 million square feet of nylon and 5,300 tons of steel over 23 miles of Central Park. And all of it orange. While it ended up being massively popular in its 16-day run, it was also a frequent punchline. ” data-id=”110167413″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/10361_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.10167413″/>

• The New York Times. Since it was so publicly hated, the United States General Service Administration held an open hearing in 1985, where many famous artists testified on its behalf. But the GSA determined that it be removed anyway, and the city was rid of it by the beginning of 1989. It didn’t seem like many were shedding any tears: The Wall Street Journal’s headline on its editorial was “Good Riddance!” ” data-id=”110167669″ data-link=”https://amnewyork.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/10362_image.jpg” class=”wp-image-1.10167669″/>

Just one month after Long Island City’s controversial proposal, the Sunbather, Madison Square Park’s upcoming art installation is causing headaches.

Given that this is New York, it’s hardly surprising that there have been some public art controversies over the years. From the Gates to the Tilted Arc, we take a look back at some of the most controversial projects that New Yorkers (some funded by the city while others are privately funded) have seen.