Those stupid Pink Snails that popped up on South Beach two months ago like a bad case of herpes are finally gone, but they're not going far. They're slithering down to Coral Gables, where they will continue being stupid and ugly for two more months. Whatever, at least they're not more Britto.
The 8-foot-tall, 11-foot-wide hot pink snails first came to South Beach on November 15 courtesy of gallerist Gloria Porcella and Italian art collective Cracking Art Group, and had previously been displayed in Rome and Paris. They're made out of recycled plastic and are somehow supposed to make us all think about sustainability and the environment, and not contribute to the impression that Miami Beach is some neon-colored amusement park.
While in Miami Beach some of the snail became victims of vandalism, and one was even thrown into Biscayne Bay. Which we don't condone, even though we think they are stupid.
Twenty-two out of the original 45 will be moving to Coral Gables where Porcella, according to The Herald, hopes they are treated with more respect.
The giant plastic snail invasion of South Florida isn't quite over. Apparently, the city of Fort Lauderdale wants the eyesores next, and Porcella is thinking about manufacturing more for Broward, this time painting them in beige for a more low-key effect of ugly.
Meanwhile, South Florida remains home to lots of locally grown artists who we're sure would love to have their work installed around town but for some reason keep getting passed over for Britto and neon snails.
Follow Miami New Times on Facebook and Twitter @MiamiNewTimes.
