Harbor Artworks

I am speaking for the 60 members of the Sculptors Guild of San Diego when I state that we unanimously oppose the choice of the palm tree and airplane sculptures for Harbor Island and Spanish Landing. Palm trees are a common sight in San Diego, and are at their ugly stage when just pruned. We do not like the artificial representation of the plant.

Feelings, of course, are much stronger about what appears to be a “broken” airplane. We feel that it is a mistake if public sculpture in “America’s Finest City” is even perceived to be a negative statement.

Those of us who live with art on a daily basis certainly understand that there is a place for shocking, rude or negative statements, but we want a pleasant, even fun statement, made to our visitors. We want it to reinforce our good feelings about ourselves.

We applaud the process that led to the Port District’s choosing major art, but feel that it should continue until choices are made that we all can be proud of. To that end, we would be glad to serve the Port District in any way we can.

MIT MEAD

San Diego