Mysterious Googly Eyes in Public Art in Oregon

2 minute(s) ·  December 14, 2024

Googly eyes mysteriously appearing on Bend, Oregon’s public sculptures have sparked a viral mix of humor and debate over art preservation, community engagement, and priorities in public spending.

Googly eyes have been mysteriously appearing on sculptures throughout Bend, Oregon, turning the city's iconic "Roundabout Art Route" into a quirky viral sensation. Residents have been both amused and divided over the playful additions, which gained national attention after being featured on a late-night segment of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert.

Photos shared by the city on social media show googly eyes affixed to sculptures, including a pair of deer and a metallic sphere. One Facebook commenter wrote, “My daughter and I went past the flaming chicken today and shared the biggest laugh,” referring to the Phoenix Rising sculpture. Another suggested, “The googly eyes on the deer are perfect—they should stay that way.”

However, not everyone is laughing. The city has spent $1,500 removing googly eyes from seven of the eight sculptures impacted, citing the need to protect the art from adhesive damage. “While the googly eyes might give you a chuckle, it costs money to carefully remove them without harming the pieces,” the city said in a social media post. Bend’s communications director, Rene Mitchell, explained that unlike seasonal decorations such as Santa hats or wreaths, which are sometimes left untouched, the adhesives used for the googly eyes can damage the sculptures, which are made of materials like bronze and steel. One piece, Phoenix Rising, may even require a full repainting.

Some residents feel the city’s focus is misplaced, arguing that funds and energy would be better spent addressing pressing issues like homelessness. “This town is getting so stuffy. Let’s have fun!” one commenter posted. Others defended the decorations, with one noting, “The creativity of whoever decorates the roundabouts during the holidays always brings a smile.”

Mitchell said the city’s intent wasn’t to come off as heavy-handed but to educate the community on the impact of adhesives on public art. “We really want people to engage with the art and have fun,” she said. “We just need to ensure it’s protected.”

The debate over googly eyes has spotlighted a larger discussion about art, community engagement, and humor in public spaces, proving that even small gestures can stir big conversations—and a lot of smiles.