The Tucson sculpture of a javelina riding a tandem bicycle is no longer at its post.
The sculpture located along The Loop was taken down early Monday for repairs following the discovery of “significant damage, said Callie Norton of Pima County Parks and Recreation.
The sculpture called Bicycle Built For Two, made by muralist Joe Pagac that has been on display along The Loop since May 2023 was removed Monday after the discovery of “significant damage.” The sculpture is being repaired but it was not known Monday when it would be back on public display.
Tucson muralist Joe Pagac created the sculpture called “A Bicycle Built For Two,” and since May of 2023 the javelina on a bicycle built for two has greeted passersby at the Mountain Avenue Bridge on the north bank of Rillito River Park.
Norton said this appears to be the first time the sculpture has been vandalized.
The Pima County Arts Program and Pagac removed the sculpture soon after county officials learned of the damage “to prevent further damage and probable theft,” Norton said.
The “chain” and one of the pedals on the sculpture already were missing Monday. Cut marks also can be seen on the bicycle frame.
“While Mr. Pagac is repairing the piece, discussions will be had to assess security concerns and determine next steps,” said Norton in an email to the Star. “We do not know who caused the damage at this time but believe it was in attempt to steal the materials that the sculpture was constructed of.“
Norton said there is not timeline yet for when the piece will be on public display again.
Moving the sculpture to a new location and the potential for added security measures are being discussed, Norton said.
Caution tape was placed on the Tucson sculpture, "Bicycle Built for Two," prior to its removal Monday from display along The Loop due to damage.
County officials suspect vandals might have damaged the sculpture while trying to take some of the metal used to build it.
Cut marks can be seen on the sculptures bicycle frame.
Cutmarks can be seen on the bicycle frame of the damaged sculpture.
Part of the sculpture's bicycle handle was cut.
