ART: Discussion? Nope

Marker #11 a hammer and sickle. It’s generally universally accepted as a symbol of communism. Communism is a totalitarian state in which a single authoritarian party eliminates private property ownership. Stalin was one of the most well known communist leaders under who, millions were without mercy killed. We know that communism denies the existence of God and actively removes it from every part of society. How many of our service men and women have died in defense of those that suffered under communist governments?

Jennifer Drake, leader of the Arts Commission, said “she understood the temporary artwork might be upsetting to some, but noted that art is meant to evoke discussion and passion.” What discussion does the Arts Commission look forward to evoking, specifically? She goes on to say “I personally don’t believe it’s intentionally offensive, but I completely understand people who are uncomfortable.”

We hear this kind of response regularly and are expected to accept it at face value when organizations or people get caught. What does her response even actually mean, “intentionally offensive”? Did marker #11 erect itself? No certainly it did not, therefore there was intent to have this symbol on this marker. The problem here is that this kind of symbology in the USA and especially in North Idaho is offensive with no positive upside message. Then we need to ask what the purpose then of having it displayed was? The more we see it, the less we are sensitive to it, therefore it can be more acceptable. Communism acceptable, I don’t think so.

The vision of the Arts Commission on the website states that the citizens of Coeur d’Alene are committed to build an exceptional collection of public art- “art that defines the community and distinguishes it from others ...”

This definitely distinguishes us from others ... and not in a good way.

MATT KOLB

Coeur d’Alene