Already one of Vancouver's most famous pieces of public art, 'Phobia,' which hangs underneath the Victoria Drive Bridge, is staying put.
For now.
The huge spider sculpture made out of junk by Montreal-based Junko Playtime, the piece first showed up against the rock face next to the rail and SkyTrain tracks around March 16. A few days later the city announced it was looking at removing it.
Due to how close it was to the transit lines, the city said the art was unsanctioned and could be taken down.
"This space is managed by multiple partners; it serves as a corridor for SkyTrain and CN/BNSF Rail," a spokesperson told V.I.A. "The installation of this artwork was not done in consultation with the City of Vancouver or the rail corridor partners."
Junko, who's created both sanctioned and unsanctioned art (which was taken down) in Vancouver, campaigned to "Save Spidey." According to a V.I.A. poll, the majority of locals supported the spider.
It seems that the campaign worked.
"Based on the City’s review, staff have determined that it is safe and possible to leave 'Phobia' in place on a temporary basis up to 6 months," writes city councillor Peter Meiszner on Twitter.
He notes the City and partners have discussed how the art could stay put. The City is also reaching out to Junko to come to an agreement on timelines, responsibilities, and eventual removal.
If your 'spidey senses' were tingling, it's because I've got some good news to share on Spidey. 🕷️🕸️
— Peter Meiszner 裴智勵/裴智励 (@PeterMeiszner) April 11, 2023
Based on the City’s review, staff have determined that it is safe and possible to leave “Phobia” in place on a temporary basis up to 6 months, subject to reaching an agreement…
with files from Allie Turner.
