'Demon Horse' Divides Denver

Critics stampede to complain about sculptire of 32-foot mustang with blazing red eyes
By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff
Posted Feb 7, 2009 10:11 AM CST

A fierce controversy has reared up in Denver over a gigantic blue mustang that looms at the gateway to the city's airport, reports the Wall Street Journal. Naysayers complain that a "terrifying" 32-foot sculpture with glowing red eyes isn't the kind of first impression Denver should be giving visitors. A campaign has been launched to move the steed—which fatally crushed creator Luis Jimenez in an accident during assembly.

But local law states public sculpture must remain in place for at least 5 years, and the work is slowly gaining a posse of fans. A city cultural official who has fielded plenty of calls from both sides said that the passion is thrilling—200 people sent haiku to the mayor protesting the piece—and that engaging people is part of the point of public art. "That's when we know we've had a success—when people care," she said.
(More Denver stories.)

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