Art installation in Petaluma causes controversy: Police intervene due to vandalism threats

PETALUMA, Calif. (KGO) — In the North Bay, a new public art installation in Petaluma is already attracting praise and controversy, and it hasn't even been officially unveiled yet.

The bizarre sculpture depicts two bathtubs on high poles.

Some have threatened to destroy the work, so the police are providing protection.

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“Once I remove the upholstery and add the details, it will really stand out,” said sculptor Brian Goggin.

Goggin is putting the finishing touches on his latest work in downtown Petaluma, titled “Fine Balance,” two freestanding bathtubs suspended in the air from tall metal poles.

“The title refers to lifting something heavy above our heads and balancing it in a way that creates tension and mystery,” Goggin said.

Speaking of suspense and mystery, the public artwork has generated a lot of reaction throughout the city, to say the least, with many stopping by to see it, including Ron Petti.

“The bathtubs are too playful for me, I’m not a fan of them,” said Petti.

“I don't see the point, I guess art can be anything,” said Mike Stafford.

There are many haters.

“Are they going to put a toilet there too?” asked Stafford.

In deleted social media posts, some even threatened to destroy the art installation once it was finished.

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Petaluma Police are taking these threats seriously and have set up a trailer with surveillance cameras to monitor the art project around the clock.

“Ultimately, it is our responsibility to protect people and property,” said Petaluma police Lt. Matthew Parnow.

“We will prosecute anyone who tries to damage the piece, just like anything else,” said Anne Digges of the Petaluma Public Art Committee.

City officials say Fine Balance cost Petaluma about $150,000 to build and was moved from its original location on Water Street to a location on H Street and downsized.

Goggin is no stranger to controversy; he has created numerous works in the Bay Area and on the West Coast, including an installation in a building at 6th and Harrison in San Francisco that appears to have furniture sticking out of the windows.

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He calls “Fine Balance” a gift from Petaluma.

“People who don't like a gift think it's wrong. I invite them to come and look at it with an open mind,” Goggin said.

Others accept the new job.

“I love it, fabulous. It's so wonderful, every time I walk by I smile,” said Greg Gardea of ​​Petaluma.

Not everyone is smiling yet. The project should be ready for close-up in a few weeks.

“Whether you love it or hate it, I think people will embrace it,” Digges said.