Several sculptures have been set up westbound in the boulevard between Highway 27 and the service road, approaching the Cornerstone Arts Commons. They're part of the Bergen Rocks collection.
One in particular appears to depict a larger person on the lap of a younger one. Some people are upset by it, saying it appears to depict a sexual act. Others are impressed by it but can see why it appears that way.
The sculpture is called Desire to Be, was created by Gerard Motondi who won a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Sculpture Olympics.
Proponents say the sculpture's intended purpose was to visualize the desires of everyday people to achieve a better life and looking up to those who have success.
“I think it looks nice, but I didn’t get the see it as someone who has desires, I saw it more as a mother and child from first glance,” said Jake Miller.
“I can for sure see how some people might see it that way; that definitely isn’t where my mind went, I like the idea of what it is meant to be,” Miller added.
Chase Jesske also commented on the sculpture and was impressed with it.
“Those look awesome,” Jesske said. “I do see how it could be seen as sexual though.”
The Bergen Rocks sculptures were created in 2008 and 2009 at Morton Burke's farm near Bergen by various artists from all around the world.
Town officials say more Bergen rocks will be installed in the future.
Public art has become a growing part of Olds with the addition of these sculptures and the Cornerstone Art Commons and the Town of Olds council is working to establish policies regarding public art.
