What if the artwork needs to be removed?
Sometimes changing circumstances such as a complete change of use of a particular site or user will necessitate decommissioning (removal, resiting or storage) of a work. Some commissioners have been resistant to commissioning permanent works, because of a feeling that ‘permanent’ means hundreds of years. In general, a public artwork should be designed to endure in a location for as long as is appropriate given the surrounding environment, other physical objects in the space, and the use that space or place is intended for. It is recommended that permanent works are ‘re-visited’ every generation, say 15-25 years, against agreed criteria, to ensure that it is still relevant and attractive in its setting. This decommissioning policy and practice should be reflected in artists’ briefs and contracts so that artists are aware that their work may be subject to decommissioning after an appropriate period of time.
