Fork sculptor files complaint against Stone Oak POA

The artist behind a controversial sculpture has filed a complaint with the American Civil Liberties Union against the Stone Oak Property Owners Association.  Gilbert Duran believes his rights were violated when the POA forced a local restaurateur to conceal his “fork” sculpture behind a 14-foot-high concrete wall.

“I feel I’ve been punished myself,” says Duran, later adding, “The more I think about it the more I think someone is in the wrong.  And it’s not the fork.”

Duran’s sculpture immediately caught the attention of the POA after it was erected outside the Ciel and Ciao 2 restaurants at 20626 Stone Oak Parkway roughly seven months ago.  Insisting the sculpture is a form of advertising and against community bylaws, the association initially demanded restaurateur Damien Watel remove the fork from his property or relocate it to a spot not visible from the road.  Both parties finally agreed to conceal the controversial artwork behind a half-circular wall, which was constructed late last month. 

“It’s a little too harsh,” Duran says of the barrier, noting that a more appropriate action would have been to fine Watel for not seeking POA approval before placing the art work on his property.    Furthermore, the artist insists, the sculpture represents a hand reaching out in welcome. 

“I have nothing to do with signage whatsoever.  I do art,” Duran says.   “I could understand if it was harming people or was at risk of falling on them or igniting a riot, but it’s just a symbol of sharing…It’s a universal symbol.”

Duran, who has received an outpouring of support, filed the claim with the ACLU because he believes Stone Oak homeowners should have a say in issues such as this.  The artist also believes the POA’s forceful measures to cover up a form of public art is a violation of his rights.  According to Duran, the ACLU is reviewing the case. 

As for whether he now wishes he had designed something different for Watel’s property, Duran says, “The only regret that I have is it was not made bigger so more people can see it.”