Giant Cocks Penetrate Mall

What appears to be an updated photograph of the steel roosters in front of Penney's in Sunvalley Mall.

I've always considered a mall's stores to be a primary draw, not the artwork. However, in the early 70s, our views may have differed. Although as I child, I enjoyed the fountains and the birdcages.

The question or whether artwork adds value to a mall is a good one. While malls have adorned sculptures and statuary for all time (think Butano at Hillsdale Mall), what purpose does having artwork in a mall have?

Having discounted the notion that artwork in a mall is wasted on the young, I am converted. When evaluating a mall, I now examine how a mall gives back to the community. Oftentimes, this is in the form of hosting artwork. It also gives a mall an identity and tells us a little something about the architect's or mall owners' values. Compare Alameda Towne Center to The Fremont Hub. One is loaded with artwork, the other none.

Enjoy!
Scott