Watch: Container art raises eyebrows in New Westminster
Friday May 2nd, 2014
The city of New Westminster is embroiled in a debate over the merits of public art.
A sculpture by Brazilian artist Jose Resende called “WOW New Westminster” is at the centre of that debate.
It is made of four rusting shipping containers positioned in two V-formations.
Resende likes to play with everyday reality, mindful of the historic fact that New Westminster was a transportation hub in its early years.
His container art is one of three works of art that are part of Vancouver Biennale exhibition.
Keeping it would cost the city $65,000.
Supporters call it awe-inspiring but critics are less than wowed.
But the dilemma for New Westminster’s city council is whether recycled shipping containers really represent their city.