Larry Rivers "Legs" and Public Art on the East End.
May 20, 2024
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Larry Rivers, a prominent artist known for his public art installations, discusses the controversy and impact of his 16 foot tall 'Legs' sculpture in Sag Harbor. The podcast explores the clash between government decisions and the artistic community, balancing historic preservation with artistic expression. It also delves into the history of public art in the community and the challenges it faces.
Public art in the Hamptons sparks debate on preservation vs artistic expression.
Larry Rivers' legs sculpture exemplifies clash between artistry and zoning regulations.
Deep dives
Debate on Public Art and Displays
The episode delves into the ongoing debate surrounding public art and displays in the Hamptons, touching on examples like protest art like Casos Guernica and Goya's disasters of war. It references controversies such as the Brooklyn Museum of Art funding issue in 1999 and the ban on outside art displays in the historic district of East Hampton Village. The discussion explores the subjective nature of art and the impact of art in shaping local communities.
The Sculpture Controversy in the Historic District
The podcast narrates the 1989 debate in East Hampton's historic district where outside art displays, specifically sculptures at Guildhall, sparked significant controversy. The creation of the historic district led to restrictions on art displays, leading to a heated debate within the community about balancing preservation and artistic expression. The podcast reflects on the local impact and historical significance of public art in shaping community identity.
Legs Sculpture by Larry Rivers
The episode discusses the 1960s sculpture by Larry Rivers featuring a 16-foot tall pair of women's legs and the ensuing debate about its installation in Sag Harbor Village. The narrative unveils the disagreements over whether the sculpture was ornamental, temporary, or permanent, highlighting the clash between artistic expression and zoning regulations. It reveals the legal interpretations defining the sculpture as a structure and the subsequent community response to its display.
Legacy and Commodity of Art
The podcast closes with the story of Larry Rivers' legs sculpture selling for $100,000 in 2021, reflecting on how art transforms into a commodity. It examines the enduring legacy of controversial art pieces like the legs sculpture and delves into the intertwining aspects of artistry, structure, and monetary value. The discussion touches on the balance between artistic expression and community regulations, showcasing the enduring impact and perception of art in local contexts.
In 2008, Larry Rivers 16 foot tall "Legs" was installed outside a private residence in Sag Harbor. The usual questions abounded; was it art, was it a structure, did it have a place as a public art display. An East End version of a centuries old battle over what can be deemed art, what can't, and who can judge the difference? In fact, in 1989 East Hampton Village banned outside displays of art within its historic district where Guild Hall, an arts center and museum, sits on Main Street within the district. Esperanza and Irwin engage in a free wheeling discussion of all of the above, with an impromptu musical interlude to boot.
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