“Orange Man” Sculpture Removed in Lyon Township, Says Artist
In the quiet community of Lyon Township, a bit of artistic controversy is brewing. Renowned local artist and creator of the famous “Orange Man on the Hill” or “Man in the City,” claims that his 15-foot tall silhouette sculpture was taken down by the township, rather than vandals as some had thought.
The silhouette, a familiar sight to community members and passersby, had been a prominent fixture in James F. Atchison Memorial Park for a decade.
The artist, John Sauve, says he was taken by surprise when he received a letter from lawyers representing the township. The letter allegedly stated that after receiving multiple complaints from local residents who found the sculpture “inappropriate and frightening” to their children, officials decided to remove it.
“They know it’s mine. Why not just a quick phone call?”, Sauve questions. He says he would have been open to finding a compromise, but feels the authorities were hasty in their decision to take down the sculpture without prior communication.
Adding to the surprise, the letter also pointed out that “lights had been added to the statue,” that’s in close proximity to the airport, raising potential concerns.
According to Sauve, he has been given until Wednesday to remove his sculpture from the park, else the township will cut it up and take away the remains.
“It’s disheartening. It’s challenging. It’s expensive,” Sauve admits. However, he remains optimistic, looking forward to the opportunities that this situation might present.
This saga has given residents and art lovers alike much to ponder about. But, for John Sauve, it’s an unexpected hiccup in an otherwise peaceful existence of his renowned sculpture, and an opportunity to either resurrect the “Orange Man,” or create something entirely new in its place.
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
NOVI STAFF WRITER The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
