AUSTIN, Texas — The City of Austin will soon begin the demolition of its convention center to make way for a major expansion project.
For local artist Margo Sawyer, this means her “Index for Contemplation” art installation will no longer be hanging on the venue’s walls, as it has been for the last 23 years.
The art installation is comprised of 233 pieces, which takes up nine walls of the convention center. It is considered one of the largest art pieces in the center.
“It’s probably my first real monumental work that I ever made,” Sawyer told KVUE. “My work tries to create a sense of stillness in places that are very busy.”
In January, Austin City Council members approved the deaccession of several artworks. Sawyer said this decision put her work at serious risk.
“They have no respect for the arts and no, no, understanding of the importance of stewardship because it’s a museum in a public space,” Sawyer said.
In order to keep her art, Sawyer said she is planning to pay out of pocket and remove it herself next week.
“It’s a big job to take the work down, and it’s a big job to, you know … it’s my child in a way,” Sawyer said. “I mean, I want to make sure that it’s protected and looked after and the convention center and the city has not done a good job.”
After input from artists and stakeholders, the City of Austin, said it’s taking steps to preserve and relocate these pieces.
In a statement to KVUE, a city spokesperson wrote:
“The City of Austin is working with artists and/or their representatives to determine next steps related to their artworks, including relocation, preservation, and any necessary deinstallation. We will have more information once new locations and relocation plans are finalized. Our ultimate goal is to ensure these pieces remain accessible to the public and continue to enrich Austin’s cultural landscape.”
The city said plans are being made to relocate three out of four installations. Still, Sawyer said she still has concerns regarding where the art will go, and if she will be compensated for damage sustained while on display.
“I need to know where it’s going and feel good about that.” Sawyer said. “The damages do need to get to be paid, and hopefully the city will do the right thing.”
While no agreement has been made, Sawyer said there have been conversations about putting part of her piece in the new convention center.