What's Happening?
People Inc. has sold the iconic 'Plantoir' sculpture by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen, a landmark in Des Moines, Iowa. The 23-foot-tall sculpture, resembling a garden trowel, was sold to an undisclosed out-of-state buyer. The sale was finalized after offering the piece to local organizations, and the sculpture is expected to be relocated by the end of September. The 'Plantoir' was originally installed in 2002 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Better Homes and Gardens and has been recognized as the World's Largest Garden Trowel Sculpture by the World Record Academy.
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Why It's Important?
The sale of the 'Plantoir' sculpture marks a significant shift in the cultural landscape of Des Moines, as it has been a prominent public art piece for over two decades. The relocation of such a landmark could impact local tourism and the city's cultural identity. Additionally, the transaction highlights the ongoing interest and investment in public art by private collectors, which can influence the availability and accessibility of art in public spaces. The decision to sell the sculpture to an out-of-state buyer rather than a local organization may also raise questions about the prioritization of cultural heritage within the community.
What's Next?
The relocation of the 'Plantoir' sculpture will likely prompt discussions among local art organizations and the community about the preservation and acquisition of public art. There may be efforts to replace or commission new public art installations to maintain Des Moines' cultural vibrancy. Additionally, the sale could inspire other cities to evaluate their public art collections and consider similar transactions, potentially leading to a broader trend of private ownership of public art pieces.
