THREE free(ish) pieces of public art won’t be coming to Vincent after all, with the artists planning to instead sell Crab Riders to Melbourne city council.
Eastern states artists Gillie and Marc had offered the crabs on loan to Vincent for free, plus $10,500 in transport and installation costs.
Councillors grew worried as the costs kept going north, but due to a badly written contract Vincent was liable to pay any extra cash the artists asked for. Despite that gaping flaw the contract cost the council $3025 to draw up. Ka-ching.
Councillors had been seeking more information (and wanted to see a copy of the contract) but now the artists say Melbourne council will buy the work, and they’re keen to cancel the loan contract with Vincent.
Mayor John Carey says the $3000 document fee plus the other costs could have been put towards a bought piece.
Cr Josh Topelberg says it’s been a learning experience for all involved: “The process has been difficult to say the least.”
by DAVID BELL
Perth Voice Interactive 
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