Tilted Arc

Tilted Arc was a massive public art installation created by the minimalist sculptor Richard Serra. It was installed in 1981 in the heart of Manhattan's Federal Plaza.

The sculpture sparked massive public controversy because office workers complained it obstructed the plaza's walkway. Following a highly publicized trial, the government ordered its removal in 1989.

Against the artist's wishes, the 120-foot long steel artwork was dismantled and cut into three pieces. It was placed into storage by the General Services Administration and never displayed again.

The removal of the sculpture led to a major debate about artists' rights, public funding, and public taste. Serra unsuccessfully sued the government, and the case significantly influenced public art commissioning policies.