Hello Public Art Specialists,

Austin AIPP has two large (10’) owl sculptures being installed in a highly foot-trafficked downtown location later this year.  The sculptures will be interactive and include seating elements as well as lighting—many are very excited!

However, there has been some public dissent involving the imagery--owls.  In most Native American tribes, owls are a symbol of death or an unlucky omen.   

Have you had any experience with owl imagery and the Native American culture in your public art program?    

How have you handled public dissent of artwork imagery after it has been through the approval processes in place?

Thanks for your help!

Marjorie

Marjorie Flanagan | Art in Public Places Project Manager

marjorie.flanagan@austintexas.gov

Cultural Arts Division | Economic Development Department

P.O. Box 1088, Austin, TX 78767

Direct: (512) 974-8706 | Main: (512) 974-7700

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