Googly eyes appear on Oregon public art

Googly Eyes Bring Joy to Bend, Oregon

Residents of Bend, Oregon have been treated to a delightful surprise as googly eyes have been popping up on sculptures around the city. What started as a playful act has turned into a viral sensation, capturing the attention of news outlets and even making an appearance on a popular late-night talk show.

The city of Bend shared photos on social media of the googly eyes adorning sculptures along its “Roundabout Art Route.” From deer statues to spherical installations, the whimsical addition has brought smiles to many faces. However, the city has pointed out that removing the googly eyes without damaging the art comes at a cost.

While some residents have expressed their appreciation for the lighthearted touch, others have raised concerns about the city’s focus on more pressing issues like homelessness. Bend’s communications director, Rene Mitchell, emphasized the importance of protecting the art while still encouraging community engagement.

Over the years, Bend’s sculptures have seen various seasonal decorations, but the googly eyes present a unique challenge due to the adhesive used. The city has already spent $1,500 on removing the googly eyes from several sculptures and may need to repaint some pieces to restore them.

Despite the controversy surrounding the googly eyes, many residents see them as a source of seasonal cheer and creativity. As one social media commenter put it, “Brings a smile to everyone to see silliness.”

Whether you’re a fan of the googly eyes or not, there’s no denying the impact they’ve had on the community of Bend, Oregon. As the city continues to protect its public art collection, let’s hope for more moments of joy and creativity to brighten our days.