Public art often sparks debate, but some outdoor sculptures have stirred such intense controversy that they were ultimately removed. Here are some of the most contentious examples:

1. "Tilted Arc" by Richard Serra (1981-1989)

This massive steel wall in New York City's Federal Plaza divided opinions. Critics called it an eyesore and obstruction, leading to its removal after a heated public battle.

2. "The Statue of Peace" (Comfort Women Statue) in San Francisco (2017-2020)

A memorial to WWII "comfort women," it faced backlash from Japanese officials and was removed due to diplomatic pressure, reigniting historical tensions.

3. "The Confederate Memorial" in Arlington Cemetery (1914-2023)

This controversial tribute to Confederate soldiers was dismantled as part of broader efforts to remove symbols of racial oppression.

4. "The Scaffold" by Sam Durant (2017)

Installed at the Walker Art Center, this piece referenced historical gallows, including those used in Native American executions. Protests led to its swift removal.

5. "The Slave Auction Block" in Fredericksburg (1860s-2020)

A literal stone block where humans were once sold, its preservation as "history" became untenable amid racial justice movements.

These cases reveal how public art can become flashpoints for societal conflicts, forcing communities to confront uncomfortable histories and competing values. The removals often mark significant cultural shifts, though they rarely resolve the underlying debates.