Sculpture has the OK of Gehry

This is in response to Christopher Knight’s piece regarding the Oldenburg/Van Bruggen sculpture for Disney Hall (“The Hall Mark,” July 28). The idea for a sculpture for Disney Hall was proposed many times during the process of working on the building, and I was asked at various times to suggest artists. Since I’m very close to many Los Angeles artists, I do recall proposing that they be included. The two artists whose works were approved were Oldenburg/Van Bruggen and Richard Serra. I personally endorsed both of them and proposals were made. The Richard Serra piece was not able to be funded because it required restructuring the upper Grand Avenue bridge.

The Oldenburg/Van Bruggen piece has been in the works for many years. The models have been shown publicly and have been greeted with approval from many sectors of the community. I worked with Oldenburg/Van Bruggen to make sure that the location of the sculpture fit with the character of the front entrance to Disney Hall and that it wasn’t what artists call a “plop on the plaza.” I am very satisfied that the final result will be quite beautiful and very acceptable and something that I heartily endorse.

I realize that there are differences of opinion, and I’ve certainly discussed this with Christopher Knight, whom I deeply respect. I understand that we have a difference of opinion. I think that’s always a possibility, and probably healthy. For anybody who thinks that this sculpture is being forced on me, that is the furthest thing from the truth.

Frank Gehry

Los Angeles