A 60-foot-tall sculpture made of stacked shipping containers has ignited a legal dispute in Montauk, a wealthy enclave in the Hamptons, with some residents calling the artwork a "junkyard mess" and town officials initiating legal action to have it removed.
The sculpture, titled "Meditating Figure," was installed on June 27 at The Ranch, a 26-acre private gallery. Created by Los Angeles artist Matt Johnson, the artwork is assembled from a dozen industrial steel shipping containers and depicts a seated figure. Supporters view it as contemporary art, but critics argue it is an eyesore that clashes with the area's natural beauty.
East Hampton town officials allege that the installation was erected without the necessary building permit and certificate of occupancy. Town attorney Jake Turner stated that structures made from joined shipping containers require proper safety oversight. "It's not a matter of what is being displayed, but how it's being displayed... and make sure it's legal," Turner said, emphasizing the legal action is focused on procedural compliance rather than artistic merit.
Residents have voiced strong opposition. East Hampton resident Mitchel Agoos described the sculpture as a "monstrosity" and "dreck," comparing the massive containers to safety-concerned skyscrapers. Dr. Jennifer Jablow of Southampton called the piece "unsightly," contrasting it with other sculptures that she believes enhance the natural environment.
Gallery owner Max Levai maintains that officials are overreaching, arguing that displaying sculptures on private property is a right and that if the pieces are not considered structures, they do not require permits. He noted that the permit process can take up to five months, potentially extending beyond the exhibition's scheduled end date of November 15.
The controversy has also gained traction on social media, with commenters ridiculing the installation. However, some, like artist Richard Sichel, have dismissed the backlash, calling the sculpture "fun" and a statement.
Artist Matt Johnson commented on the sculpture's placement, noting he intended for it to be visible to those approaching from the Montauk Lighthouse. He also pointed to the nearby horses as adding a layer of meaning, contrasting their historical role in transporting goods with the modern function of shipping containers. Johnson has stated he is not involved in the legal dispute and is focused on creating his art.
Montauk has a long artistic history, having been associated with artists like Andy Warhol.
