ART: Oversight recommended

I’m writing concerning the actions taken by supporters of the Coeur d’Alene Arts Commission at the last City Council meeting and the column written by Sholeh Patrick titled “Art’s value includes some pain.”

I’m not sure how long the disgusting political art Marker No. 11 was on display in Riverstone. I’ve been told it was there for two days and others claim it has been there for three years. Regardless, it wasn’t until Saturday, Nov. 16 that I became aware of it.

According to the mayor, the City Council wasn’t aware of its content. From the response by the Arts Commission, it’s plain to see they find no fault with its offensive political content. They argue the hammer and sickle represents a sign of the common people’s revolution. I could easily argue that is also true of the swastika.

The Arts Commission receives public funding without any apparent oversight. We as taxpayers have a right to know what art is being leased and placed in our city. The City Council is ultimately responsible for the content and use of tax dollars by the Arts Commission. Therefore, they should insure some reasonable/responsible oversight in the immediate future.

JERRY G. WEAVER

Coeur d’Alene