Mitchell Doran, a Saskatoon comedian, expressed disappointment after visiting the city’s new public art installation, Modern Erratics, which features three large sculptures made of recycled plastic. Despite his general support for public art, Doran criticized the $310,000 project, arguing that the quality did not justify the high cost. Modern Erratics, created by the Alberta-based art duo Sans façon, consists of over 4,500 kilograms of used plastic and aims to provoke thought about waste and environmental issues. The installation has drawn mixed reactions from the public, prompting the City of Saskatoon to defend the budget in response to criticism. Some residents appreciate the artwork’s environmental message, while others share Doran’s concerns about its aesthetic value and the involvement of external artists.
Why It Matters
Public art projects like Modern Erratics are often funded through municipal budgets designed to enhance community spaces and promote cultural identity. The installation’s $310,000 budget was allocated from the city’s public art policy, which integrates art into major civic projects. This approach aims to improve the visual appeal of urban infrastructure while supporting local and regional artists. Public reactions to such projects can influence future funding decisions and the selection processes for artistic contributions, reflecting broader community values and priorities regarding art and environmental responsibility.
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