A STOUSH over two sculptures that has split Dunolly could end on Tuesday when the local council rules on where they will go.
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The two mosaic works by world-renowned artist Deborah Halpern have become a flashpoint in the debate over modern art and historic streets.
The Central Goldfields Shire will this week decide on possible locations after locals noticed footings being installed and objected to one sculpture's location on the town's main street, Broadway.
That sculpture would have risen outside a former hotel connected to Cobb & Co, the company that began running coach services through Victoria during the 1850s Gold Rush.
Some residents object outright to the sculptures rising in Broadway, others have suggested installing them in other parts of the street and others say they should go in the original locations, a report to the council administrators says.
"The responses received and further discussions on social media and print media do not raise issue with the art works belonging in Dunolly," it says.
"Moreover the debate is centered around the look and feel and to a less extent the use of Broadway as a historic street.
The report argues that those saying Broadway is a historic street have to agree there are modern elements there, including newer buildings and mosaic planter boxes.
"The concern is perhaps the modern colour and style and specific location of the sculptures that have resulted in the community debate."
The council has received 75 "varied" submissions, including a petition strongly opposing the sculptures being installed on Broadway.
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Other submissions suggested raising them in places like Dunolly Primary School, Deledio Oval.
Some suggested putting them up at the town entrances or in Gordon Gardens, a public park where two other pieces by Ms Halpern already stand.
Wherever they go, the sculptures need to be in an important public place, be highly visible and be easily accessable for maintenance to fit with the council's public art policy, the report notes.
It suggests administrators choose between the town's entrances or on one or both of its two parks.
They can also consider installing on 26 Thompson Street and the other outside 118 Broadway.