Downtown favorite damaged in apparent overnight act of vandalism
A man stops to see the damage to the downtown sculptures and points at sheep painted blue.
October 5, 2018
Those attending tonight’s First Friday Art Walk who venture along 6th Street to see Alan Cottrill’s famous bronze sculptures probably won’t like what they see.
The faces of some of Downtown Zanesville’s most beloved sculptures, which take between three to six months to complete, have been vandalized, and the community is disgusted.
According to Rachel Girton, an associate at Cottrill’s studio, the sculptures were spray painted blue most likely overnight
Around 10 of the sculptures lining the sidewalk outside the studio were hit, as well as some of the surrounding city property including flower pots, an electric box, and a message written on the 6th Street bridge that simply reads “STATE.”
Girton said she has received calls throughout the day from concerned passersby alerting them of the damage.
“Somebody called in to help volunteer to help clean them up, which you know, once again, that it’s so appreciative of you know, how much clearly this town shows us they love these pieces out there, and they want to help, so I really appreciate that,” said Girton.
A downtown businessman and his secretary who stopped to see the statues themselves after hearing about the vandalism were clearly upset about the damage, pointing at each statue and commenting on the “terrible” act.
Girton said the damage is not permanent and can be cleaned off.
Police have been notified of the incident.
M.F. Hopper • Nov 4, 2018 at 3:48 am
The vandalism that was done to quite afew beautiful sculptures that aline the sidewalk on 6th Street. Its really disgusting how others just take it upon themselves to destroy what this town has to offer through its very talented people to share with the rest of us. Spray painting the faces of the sheep and face of the donkey and the face of the man that appears to be sitting and reading a book. Vandalism to those beautiful pieces of artwork and the person or persons are most definitely weak small minded, no conscience, or compassion for your fellow neighbors. But the one statue that you decided to de-faced thinking its all fun and games. Is the one that represents all of the AMERICAN MEN AND WOMEN who has taken an oath is protect the United States of America from domestic and foreign. They are sacrificing and giving their all to protect the likes of you, a spineless, POS individual/s who chooses to do their dirty, disgusting, disrespectful deeds in the dark of night because you are or they are piss poor excuse for human beings. Heartless, no soul, no consciences, no respect for your neighbors. Let me ask you. “WHAT HAVE YOU SACRIFICED AND GIVEN YOUR ALL TO, TO HELP NOT DESTROY but to HELP. Huh,? From what ive seen you dont give anything to anyone all you do is take and destroy other peoples lives and their property.