‘Hold Your Head Up’ is the second public art work to be installed in Auburn Street in recent months as part of the Goulburn Regional Art Gallery’s public art program. It is by artist Luke Chiswell. 

‘Hold Your Head Up is a powerful and important message for each of us’ said Business Manager of Marketing, Events and Culture Sarah Ruberto.

“As the pressures of life can become a burden, the message and sentiment behind this work reminds us to hold our head up.”

It certainly has been stopping people in their tracks and if the response on social media and from a councillor is anything to go by – the community is wondering why this piece of modern art has been placed in such a heritage area in the front of the park. 

Cr Margaret O’Neill did not hold back in her opinion of the new art work. 

“It is a bloody disgrace,” Cr O’Neill said.

“That is the main heritage area of the city. It is the jewel in Goulburn’s crown and to put that there makes it look like a dog’s breakfast. It is mind boggling why it was placed there.” 

It has attracted much comment on the Goulburn Mulwaree Council’s Facebook page, with many on social media questioning the cost of the new sculpture, to which a council spokesperson replied: “There is $22,000 in the 2016/17 budget for public art, which includes this work and a number of other projects.” 

“What an absolute waste of money,” posted Melissa Kay. 

Lee Wither’s posted: “What did it cost ? It's representing what? Skinny long legged residents with big heads? Is it a head? Beautification of the town I totally favour, but I fail to see anything in this that represents our heritage town.”

Others loved it, commenting that it was “quirky and fun” and “a great local artistic inclusion.” 

Mr Chiswell, of Collector, told the Post he was excited to be working with the Goulburn Regional Art Gallery.

“I’m flattered and honoured my work is in a public space in the city,” he said.