What was a major critique of Richard Serra's "Tilted Arc"?

The critique that Richard Serra's "Tilted Arc" required viewers to navigate around it highlights an essential aspect of the sculpture's design and its interaction with the surrounding environment. The installation, which was placed in a public space, fundamentally altered how people experienced that space. Viewers were compelled to move around and engage with the structure in a way that diverged from traditional expectations of art, which could lead to feelings of disruption or annoyance among those who frequented the area.

This spatial negotiation emphasized the relationship between the artwork and its audience, raising questions about accessibility and the role of art in public spaces. Critics argued that the physical obstruction could create an adverse experience for commuters and pedestrians who were accustomed to a more straightforward passage through the area. Serra's intent was to challenge perceptions of art and space; however, the requirement for navigation sparked debate about the function of public art and the necessity for it to be accommodating rather than imposing.

The other options, while they may reflect critiques that could be associated with public art in general, do not capture the specific interaction and engagement that "Tilted Arc" demanded from its viewers. Therefore, the argument regarding navigation highlights a key aspect of the public response to the piece.