Key points to remember
- Nick Cave's kinetic sculpture "The Air Up There" has been removed from Kansas City International Airport due to security concerns .
- The sculpture featured 2,800 colorful scarecrows and was a major art installation in the airport.
- The work will be preserved as a city asset, potentially remaining in storage indefinitely if not reinstalled or moved.
- The city's arts budget for the airport project was $5.65 million, with at least 1 percent of construction costs allocated to arts installations.
Nick Cave's "The Air Up There" was a unique kinetic sculpture at Kansas City International Airport. The work embodied the spirit of the city through public art. It consisted of colorful turnstiles adorned with symbols of Kansas City, such as fountains and animals.
Travelers greatly appreciated this sculpture, which added a touch of beauty and interest to the airport.
However, the removal of Nick Cave's work was prompted by safety concerns. An engineering report found that the sculpture's turnstiles could not support its weight and movement, posing a risk of collapse. As a precaution, the airport decided to remove it to ensure the safety of visitors and staff.
Beyond its aesthetic dimension, the work carried a deeper meaning. It incorporated symbols of equality and love, reflecting Nick Cave's desire to bring wonder to Kansas City International Airport.
The sculpture, which cost $1 million, featured 2,800 colorful turnstiles installed in the check-in hall.
Nick Cave's work celebrated the spirit of Kansas City. Its removal left a void, but the city is considering finding a new home for it. Local officials want to preserve the important piece as a cultural asset. It could be stored indefinitely if a reinstallation or move doesn't happen.
Jean Dubreil