Albert Paley Sculpture - The Paragon

WICHITA, Kansas -- Wichitans are getting their first look at a new piece of art at WaterWalk called the "Paragon." It is a $350,000 sculpture representing Native American culture and Wichita's aviation history.

It's impressive to some residents who are happy to see the city embrace more and more art.

"Wichita has been very generous in supporting the arts and I think it's important to continue to do that," said Margaret Crawford.

The sculpture has been a sore topic for some ever since the sketches were drawn up.

"Frankly I don't care for it," said Bill Peterson.

The number one issue for some is how it was paid for. Wichita's City Council voted 4-3 to use tax increment financing to fund the project.

"I think we're hurting here with public schools and our money cut," said Dick Gilmartin. "The city, frankly, I think it spends too much money on frivolous things," said Dick Gilmartin, who was concerned about the sculpture funding.

Councilwoman Janet Miller voted in favor of the project. She said the sculpture will bring several benefits with it.

"It's a matter of doing what is needed and right for our community in terms of maintaining that momentum and vitality that we need," said Miller.

Money aside, some just don't like how the sculpture looks.

"It kind of stands out and it was just a little odd," said Abby Lingg. "I don't know a lot about art, but it was a little bit hard to comprehend."

Though there is debate on how the sculpture looks and how it was paid for, art supporters say its vital to keeping Wichita unique.

"I think art enhances the city very much and, "I'm in favor of spending public money on it," said Lee Crawford, an arts supporter.

The sculpture sits on the corner of Waterman and Main. It is a 38-foot work of art made from steel and bronze.