Cambridge is definitely an art-friendly city, but when does art go too far?
The recent installation of the work “Flocks” has some residents concerned.
“It hits your eye. You better watch out when you’re driving. It might distract you,” Paul Trotto, a former Cambridge resident now living in Somerville, said while standing on Cambridge Street and talking with friends about the artwork.
“Flocks” was designed by Cambridge artist Carolina Aragon. The installation is made up of groups of about 50 reflective, soft-sculpture “birds” that are strung above Cambridge Street in five locations.
The installation went up Monday and the shimmer was immediately visible when turning on to Cambridge Street from Route 28 heading out of Boston.
Sitting inside her car along Cambridge Street, Medford resident Fran Miller said the movement of the “sparkling” sculptures caught her eye as she drove but didn’t worry her.
“It’s not distracting to me at all,” she said.
Messages left for the Cambridge Arts Council were not returned. A press release said a selection committee picked “Flocks” based on potential visual impact and an emphasis on education and outreach.
Police reported no incidents on Cambridge Street since “Flocks” went up.
