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25 J. Art Crime 69 (2021)
Art Crime and Public Sculpture in Aotearoa New Zealand

handle is hein.journals/jartcrim25 and id is 74 raw text is: Art Crime and Public Sculpture in Aotearoa New Zealand Robin Woodward and Ellie Thomas Abstract n 2020 public sculpture had its moment in the spotlight. Around the globe public sculpture was challenged for what it represented. Commemorative sculpture in particular faced a critical and physical backlash as statues of colonial figureheads became the target of theft, destruction and vandalism. A renewed conversation emerged, and questions were raised over who in fact these figures represent and what purpose such works now serve. Public art in New Zealand is not immune to such scrutiny, and protests around the country saw many sculptures defaced, vandalised and damaged - art crime. This research analyses the motivation behind the crimes committed against public sculpture in New Zealand, whether it be for profit, protest or personal gratification. It examines the events, circumstances and perspectives that lead to the targeting of art in the public domain. The impact and implications of vandalism and the theft of public art are explored, and the question is asked - who is the guardian of art in public places? Whose responsibility is it to care for and protect sculpture in the public space? Most instances of crime against public art remain unresolved despite the efforts of civic bodies, stakeholders and the police. Collating a spreadsheet of public art crime which incorporates informing factors and outcomes, breaks new ground in academic publishing. While this essay analyses the findings of current research, it also aims to raise awareness and facilitate further critical discourse. Keywords: art crime, Aotearoa New Zealand, protest, profit, personal gratification, public art, sculpture, theft, vandalism. 69

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