Why discussion of sculptures and monuments is sadly outdated

Abstract This article explores the evolving discourses on sculptures, monuments and open space, under the context of recent changes in the world that influence people's perception of public artworks, shifting from original artistic appreciation to increasingly intense socio‐political scrutiny. It considers multiple statues of importance, which were erected, admired, or disdained by the public. This article calls for an urgent need to take inclusive approaches to the representation of artworks in public space that honor women and minorities. Potential solutions are explored, including relocating controversial statues to places of less centrality, adding explanatory plaques, and considering virtual sculptures to preserve open spaces. This article acknowledges that history is not always static and that there's an ongoing trend that artworks in public are placed to inspire new meanings. It contributes to the critical discussion of how art should be and in what way can artworks influence people's perceptions over time.