Reform-run Kent County Council has sold a pair of sculptures by renowned British artist Antony Gormley back to their creator as part of efforts to manage mounting financial pressures.
A council spokesperson confirmed the sale of Two Stones, saying the decision was taken carefully given the work's cultural significance and Gormley's connection to Maidstone.
The council said the private sale allowed it to raise income, adding that returning the sculptures directly to the artist ensures their ongoing care and preserves the possibility of future public exhibition.
‘Responsible leadership requires difficult decisions to ensure the council remains financially sustainable while continuing to support culture in ways that are affordable and appropriate,’ the spokesperson said.
The sculptures were dispatched at the end of March.
Green Kent County Councillor and leader of Maidstone Borough Council, Stuart Jeffery told Byline Times: ‘They did it quietly. It disappeared sometime last week, and then we found it missing.’
Asked how much the sculptures were sold for, a council spokesperson said they were unable to disclose the costs because of a confidential legal agreement with Gormley.
