ALBAWABA- The city of Bend, Oregon, is urging residents to stop sticking googly eyes on its public art, citing the cost of removal and the risk of damage.
The whimsical prank, which gained viral attention, has cost the city $1,500 (£1,188) to carefully remove the adhesive eyes from seven sculptures, including the "Phoenix Rising" statue, humorously nicknamed the "flaming chicken."
"While the googly eyes might give you a chuckle, it costs money to remove them without damaging the art," the city said on social media.
The prank has sparked mixed reactions. Some residents praised the googly eyes for adding humor to the city's art, with one Facebook user declaring, "We love the googly eyes.
This town is getting so stuffy—let's have fun!" Others criticized the city for focusing on the prank rather than addressing pressing issues like homelessness.
Seasonal decorations like Santa hats and wreaths are typically allowed on Bend's sculptures, but the city says the adhesive used for the googly eyes poses a risk to the art.
"We encourage our community to engage with and enjoy the art," said Rene Mitchell, Bend's communications director. "We just need to ensure it's protected from damage."
