'Canned parrot' window display causes controversy

Terrific Street, a store in San Francisco's North Beach area, isn't open yet but has nonetheless managed to cause quite a bit of controversy.

The current window display features mock cans of parrot meat, and is intended to give people a sneak peek of the quirky stuff that will be on display. The locals, however, are not impressed.

One commented: "If a measure of art is to promote discussion then this store front for a future art gallery has certainly succeeded."

But many of those who have commented on the display say they are aware the installation is intended to be art: they just believe the piece is insensitive and in poor taste.

Mark Bittner told the San Francisco Chronicle: "I understand what it's supposed to be, but I think it's just little-boy humour."

Local media outlet, Hoodline, was told about the store's controversial display by local resident Julie Herrod who said it was: "The most disgusting thing I've ever seen in North Beach in the 25 years I've lived here."

Brady Baltezore, one of the store's six owners has said that he is surprised by the reaction to the installation and just wants to move past all the controversy.

He told Hoodline: "We wouldn't harm parrots. We love parrots... In this era, there's a little too much emphasis on what people's reaction is to art, rather than enjoying it on its own merits."