An Australian teenager has been charged after allegedly glueing artificial eyes to a public artwork that locals nicknamed the ‘Blue Blob.’
The 19-year-old was charged with damaging the AU$136,000 (approximately $88,000 USD) sculpture, officially named Cast in Blue, on September 13.
Per the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, court documents claimed Amelia Vanderhorst was “recklessly indifferent” as to whether her conduct would damage the artwork.
Council vows to seek restoration costs
Cast in Blue was installed in July 2025 as part of a City of Mount Gambier arts initiative celebrating the region’s geology and the famous Blue Lake.
In its original statement following the vandalism in September, the City of Mount Gambier council said, “CCTV footage captured an individual affixing artificial eyes to the sculpture in the early hours of September 14.”
“Rectifying the damage will result in significant repair expenses, and Council remains committed to pursuing cost recovery from those responsible,” the statement continued.
According to The ABC, Police estimated damage from the incident at less than AU$2,500 (approx. $1600 USD). Vanderhorst was said to have not entered a plea during her initial court appearance and was advised to seek legal counsel before her next hearing in December.
Apple helped kill netbooks. Will it bring them back?