The City of Perth finds itself at the center of an art controversy following the removal of two significant sculptures, the Ore Obelisk and The Arch, and the introduction of a new artwork, the Boonji Spaceman. The Ore Obelisk, affectionately known as "the kebab," stood proudly in Stirling Gardens on St George's Terrace to celebrate Western Australia's population reaching one million. Designed by Paul Ritter, this 15-metre-tall sculpture held a special place in many West Australian hearts. However, it was removed in 2021 due to public safety concerns and remains in storage as of 2023.
Meanwhile, another well-known artwork, The Arch by Lorenna Grant, was removed from Northbridge Piazza for repairs in 2023 and has not been reinstalled. In its place, a seven-metre-tall astronaut sculpture by US artist Brendan Murphy now stands temporarily. The decision to introduce the new Boonji Spaceman has stirred mixed reactions among local art enthusiasts and residents.
The Fate of the Ore Obelisk
The Ore Obelisk's removal from Stirling Gardens has sparked a call for its restoration and return to public display. Despite its fond place in the community, the City of Perth has not disclosed how much it would cost to restore the sculpture. As it stands, the Ore Obelisk remains in storage, leaving many to wonder about its future.
Helen Curtis, an arts consultant, passionately advocates for the restoration of the Ore Obelisk. She emphasizes the cultural significance of the sculpture, stating:
"It's a really important part of our cultural history. It's a part of our legacy as Western Australians." – Helen Curtis
Curtis also criticized the decision to replace it with an artwork lacking local ties:
"It doesn't belong to WA. It has no connection to what's here." – Helen Curtis
She further expressed her discontent with the placement of the Boonji Spaceman on the former site of the Ore Obelisk:
"And it feels like an insult for that to be placed on the exact location where Ore Obelisk was." – Helen Curtis
The Controversy Surrounding The Arch
The Arch, a black and white zigzag sculpture by Lorenna Grant, was commissioned by the City of Perth in 2009 and became a notable feature at Northbridge Piazza. However, it was removed for repairs earlier this year and has not been reinstalled. Lorenna Grant revealed that financial constraints might be hindering its return:
"I did get a phone call from somebody in the City of Perth and they just said basically that they don't have the money to do it." – Lorenna Grant
Grant also voiced concerns over the city's approach to handling local art:
"I found a real discrepancy in their genuineness and truthfulness and the choice to look outside of Perth rather than embracing our artists, our uniqueness, our originality." – Lorenna Grant
Despite assurances from the City of Perth regarding repair consultations, it appears there are no immediate plans to reinstall The Arch at its original location on James Street.
Introducing Boonji Spaceman
In a bid to refresh the city's public art scene, Perth has introduced a new sculpture—the Boonji Spaceman—donated by US artist Brendan Murphy. This seven-metre-tall astronaut now occupies the spot where the Ore Obelisk once stood, albeit temporarily. The City of Perth has committed between $150,000 and $250,000 to install this new piece.
Although the Boonji Spaceman is currently stationed in Stirling Gardens, officials indicate that its position may change:
"The city has consulted with the artist regarding feasible options for repair." – City of Perth spokesperson
A permanent location for the Boonji Spaceman is under consideration, with Elizabeth Quay being a potential candidate.
