Four Minors Are Being Accused Of Vandalizing Artworks and Property At Mass MoCA In North Adams

There's a big difference between art and vandalism, like I always say. And unfortunately, these things have happened for many years that I can remember. Fortunately for me, I was never one of those teens. No really.

Silly String is a well-known novelty item that releases a spray of vibrant, stretchy plastic foam from a pressurized can. They can be fun to play with when used properly, but sometimes they fall into the wrong hands of unruly teenagers.

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Four Minors Accused Of Vandalism At Mass MoCA In North Adams

Last week, a group of minors equipped with Silly String was suspected of damaging various artworks and property at the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art.

The Berkshire Eagle reports that Jennifer Falk, the museum's communications director, stated that four identified juveniles were handed over to law enforcement following two separate incidents at the museum on Thursday. Falk did not specify which artworks were affected or the extent of any possible damage, as the museum was still in discussions with the owners and heirs. However, she mentioned that restoration of the artworks is possible.

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The Damage That Occurred

Some damage happened in building B13, which contains offices and artist residences, she mentioned. It’s unknown how the juveniles managed to get into the building. On Tuesday, traces of what looked like Silly String could still be seen covering the walls of a unisex bathroom in building B13.

Falk stated that, following the incidents, all security measures were reassessed, and the main and tenant building doors were verified as secure to prevent similar events from happening again. As of writing this, the North Adams Police Department has yet to reply to several inquiries regarding the incidents, and The Eagle continues to pursue the police report.