L.A.’s 30-foot Ballerina Clown sculpture to remain permanent despite CVS closure
The 30-foot “Ballerina Clown” sculpture in downtown Los Angeles will stay in place when the CVS pharmacy beneath it closes in July 2024, according to a statement from the Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Department. The 12-ton artwork, created by artist Michael Heizer, has become a local landmark since its 2017 installation, but its future sparked debate after the CVS location announced its closure.
Why the sculpture is staying put
The Los Angeles City Council approved a permanent placement for the sculpture in 2022, citing its cultural significance and the lack of viable relocation options. “This artwork is a defining feature of the city’s public art scene,” said Councilmember Paul Krekorian, who sponsored the resolution. The CVS closure, scheduled for July 2024, will not affect the sculpture’s placement, as the building’s structural integrity allows it to remain standalone.
Public reaction and artistic context
Local residents and art critics have largely supported the decision. “It’s a bold statement in a city full of transient billboards,” said Sarah Lin, a Los Angeles art historian. The sculpture, part of Heizer’s “Endless Frontier” series, combines industrial materials with whimsical design, reflecting themes of consumerism and urban identity.
What happens next?
The site is expected to transition into a public plaza, with plans for additional art installations and green spaces. The city’s Department of Transportation confirmed the area will remain accessible to pedestrians.
Background on the sculpture
Created in 2017, the Ballerina Clown measures 30 feet tall and weighs 12 tons. It was initially installed as a temporary exhibit but gained popularity among locals. Heizer, known for large-scale public works, has not commented on the decision.
How the sculpture’s permanence compares to other L.A. art
Unlike temporary installations such as the “Elysian Park Light Installation” (2020-2022), the Ballerina Clown’s status is secured through city ordinance. Similar cases include the “Blue Whale” sculpture in Santa Monica, which faced a 2021 relocation debate before being preserved.
Why this matters
The decision highlights tensions between commercial development and public art preservation. In 2019, the removal of the “Sculpture Garden” at the Getty Center sparked protests, underscoring the emotional value of such works. Local officials emphasized the Ballerina Clown’s role in fostering community engagement.
Key details
– Artist: Michael Heizer
– Location: 800 W 7th St, Los Angeles
– Closure date: CVS to close July 2024
– City approval: 2022 resolution for permanent placement
Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Department
Los Angeles Department of Transportation