But when tension over the picture heightened, Popular Cash Express decided the only acceptable solution was to return it to its original location, Ryan explains. The company moved the front entrance, cemented the hole, and asked Neon Sign to remount the painting. Ryan says she is saddened that her company's good intentions were interpreted so negatively. It is a case of bad communication. But community activists' concern over the mural only grew when it was rehung.
Weeks says the sign company did a sloppy job.
Two panels weren't properly aligned, and therefore important elements of the image are out of sync visually. Workers also used at least 32 bright-blue screws to affix the painting, which clash with the monochromatic colors Thomas used. The artwork now bows out from the wall in places, which could lead to permanent warping. And there are gaps in the back of the mural where moisture can get in. The art fiasco goes beyond thoughtlessness, according to Weeks and others.