East Hampton Town officials have launched a legal challenge to remove a 60-foot-tall sculpture in Montauk. The piece, known as the Meditating Figure, stands at the property known as The Ranch. It consists of 12 retired shipping containers welded together by California-based artist Matt Johnson. The installation is part of an outdoor exhibition that opened in June at the gallery and horse farm.
The town alleges that the installation lacks the necessary building permits. Officials also contend that the land is subject to specific development rights sold to the town in 1983, which restrict usage to agriculture. East Hampton filed the lawsuit in Suffolk Supreme Court, seeking a court order to dismantle the structure and restore the land to its original state.
Representatives for the gallery owner, Max Levai, argue that the sculpture is permitted despite the land restrictions. Attorney Richard Whalen stated that a piece of art does not constitute a prohibited use of the property. He suggested that the artistic installation does not interfere with the agricultural nature of the site.
A judge issued a temporary restraining order this week, prohibiting any modifications or removal of the sculpture until the case is settled. The town has previously issued four violations against the property owner, citing failures to obtain a certificate of occupancy and approval from the Architectural Review Board. Both sides are scheduled to return to court on September 10.
Town officials emphasize that the primary goal remains compliance with local building and safety regulations. While council members have debated the matter, the core of the conflict rests on adherence to municipal codes rather than the aesthetic quality of the work.