A sculpture that caused controversy two decades ago continues to do the same today.
In a desolate area of Eco Park lies a table sculpture that became the center of campus debate in the 1980s.

Today, the sculpture – surrounded by woods, weeds and trash – remains controversial, but for different reasons.

The “Six Questions” bench was designed by artist Steven Beyer and was purchased by the Student Association to promote NIU’s growth via art, according to a 2005 Northern Star article.

The sculpture was installed in the King Memorial Commons for more than $10,000 in September 1981, and was relocated to the West Lagoon between 1991 and 1992, due to the renovation of the MLK Commons.

From 2000 to 2003, the sculpture was moved to Eco Park during a storm-management project.

The sculpture’s travels signify a metamorphosis from being a piece of art that “ignited a culture war NIU had not experienced since the 1960s,” according to NIU’s Regional History Center, to a piece of art seen by some as a prime gathering location.

Today, one side of the bench is covered in graffiti, and trash surrounds the base of the sculpture. Lt. Todd Henert of the University Police said the department is aware of reports of alcohol consumption and other activity near the sculpture, but has not received any reports on vandalism.

“Last year, there were a couple reports of people out there,” Henert said. “It’s becoming an area where people hang out, and it’s a handy place to sit.”

Senior physics major Joe Banek said he used to pass by the bench while walking from parties. Banek’s observations suggest the vandalism may be recent.

“I was out there last year and saw it,” he said. “There were scratches in the rust, but no graffiti.”

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