Stolen dinos, giant spiders and burnt jackets: A look at memorable public art fiascos

Three people yanked a cartoonish purple dinosaur statue, part of a four-month-old art installation, off the sidewalk in late June. The dinosaur crime saga came as Ottawans were squawking about a new National Capital Commission art installation made of torn-up tires. But is Ottawa really cornering the market on the country’s zaniest public art — or the most unusual reactions to it? Here’s a look at some of the most memorable times Canadian public art caused a fuss in recent years. The art piece was installed in 2019 outside — you guessed it — a Toronto condo building on St. Clair West Avenue.