I have a question or two regarding the nude statues. I am offended by those statues. Is there anything that can be done to stop this? Who approved them? Who is paying for this garbage? Can the order be canceled? Why could they not pick something with good morals to represent our city?

Sandra Leffew

* * *

I wondered how long it would take before someone freaked out about the statues on Market Street. Would those who have such a problem with these statues consider the Sistine Chapel artwork "offensive garbage"? Are most of the works of Michelangelo, Da Vinchi, Ruebens and many other classic artists "offensive garbage"? I've never understood why there is so much rabid fear of the beautiful human body.

Heck, at least the city finally picked some artwork you can actually recognize.

Angie Hartzler
Brainerd

* * *

I think the statues are beautiful. But I don't think they belong on a public bridge. If a person were standing there nude by the bridge, they would be arrested. We should accept no less for our public art.

The observer is more prepared if this piece is in a museum where the observer knows they are going to be looking at nude statues. If a family travels downtown through the entrance to a public bridge, through a series of nude statues, we are forced to answer questions that should be up to the parent when to approach. Whether these city planners realize or not, families will start going a different route or avoid downtown all together in order to maintain their parental rights of education, art, law, and obscenity.

No statue should be allowed unless it can pass the "real person" test. Would that undressed woman (or man) be arrested if they were to wear what the statue has on? They are beautiful but in the wrong place.

Deborah Williford

* * *

If you were to go to a museum, you would no doubt see a number of nudes in both paintings and sculptures. This type of art has existed for thousands of years. It is not pornographic or vulgar. I guess if Chattanooga received the "Venus de Milo" and "David" sculptures that even those would be below your standards of decency, regardless of the fact that they are considered historic masterpieces.

If you do not like them, ignore them. I, for one, cannot stand the architecture of the latest addition to the Hunter Museum of Art, but you will not hear me saying that it should be torn down. The statues are already up so you need to grow up and find something relevant about which to complain.

Joel Walker

* * *

Regarding the opposition (by some locals) to the lovely Chattanooga art, these people need to get a life and see some of the world. I do not claim to be a world traveler (I wish), but I have had the opportunity to visit Europe where this type of sculpture is viewed in the cathedrals, museums, and gardens - everywhere. It is art, people. Not a playboy magazine. You need to learn the difference and teach your children, for God's sake.

Joyce Gann Fox

* * *

Honestly, what is wrong with our community? There is nothing wrong with the art work by the bridge. Grow up.

Let's worry about the educational system where our state scores proved that we need improvement. Let's not worry that our community is getting a little bit of culture, whether they need it or not.

Virginia Waddell

* * *

As for the nude art in Chattanooga, my only question is why? Why do we need it? Oh yeah, one more question: how much did it cost? I do believe that money could have gone toward someone's education or maybe even fed a family for a year.

Chattanooga is not Europe, and I for one am proud of that fact. People said they see nude art in museums and gardens. That is where it belongs, not out in the open. Once again I ask why? Why on earth does Chattanooga need to spend all this money on art that sits out in the weather when that money could feed a family or help the education system?

Don't feel bad Chattanooga; Abilene, Ft. Worth and Dallas have ugly art too.

Connie Parris
Abilene, Texas

* * *

My goodness people. Have you never ventured outside of Hamilton County? Are you unaware that the rest of the free world looks upon the human form as one of God's greatest creations? Have you become so saturated with your protestant dogma that you cannot see that a representation of the human form is not an affront to moral tradition, but a celebration of all things pure?

If you cannot easily see that classical art of the kind which we have recently been graced is not the crude stuff of the reality shows of which you so liberally partake, then I invite you to take to the road and broaden your horizons. You could certainly benefit from a trip beyond the bounds of our fair city.

F. L. Benton

* * *

I found the objecting reviews concerning the statues an outrage. This city is known for it's art, pop culture, and outdoor activities. I'm personally tired of donating time and money to the homeless.

This is America; our founding fathers set out the phrase "the American Dream." In other words the opportunity to work hard and create a successful life for one; not mooch off the government.

The statues are not sexually obscene or offensive. The statues are no more offensive than the 60 foot cross statues off Lee Highway. If someone is worried about their children, then they are doing some bad parenting. Statues like these have been around for over 3,000+ years.

Robbie Ward
UTC

* * *

Virginia Waddell is absolutely right. Chattanooga has always been a center for creative endeavors. The music, performing arts, woodworking, pottery, painting, and sculpture that originates here is phenomenal in quality and quantity. These statues at the Market Street bridge are at best an inspiration and condolence for those that appreciate beauty and at worse respite from our everyday troubles.

If those who are offended by nudity could make an effort to understand that there is more to our human experience than the drudgery of our everyday lives, then they would stop once in a while to love and appreciate the beauty that exists in our world. A lot of this is created by our fellow man in the form of the human body.

I am proud when my children aspire to create and think independently as these statues inspire. I am excited about seeing them in person when I come home for Christmas. Good job, Chattanooga.

John Zachary
Claremont, Ca.