But they won't be sticking around for too long.

The massive works of art are part of a new sculpture loan program from Cary Visual Art, a local nonprofit that is responsible for much of Cary's public art collection.

The temporary art program starts as the nonprofit struggles to finance public art projects in the recession.

"We've had to wrap our minds around where we want to go," said Clare Sifford, programs director for Cary Visual Art. "We're trying to be more community-driven. It's an outdoor sculpture exhibition."

It kicked off about a month ago with the installation of "Point Balance," a giant slate mass created by Cary sculptor Phil Hathcock. When you touch the metal, the sculpture revolves around 360 degrees easily. The piece, standing eight feet high and weighing about a ton, is in front of Cary Gallery of Artists in downtown Ashworth Village. It'll be on display for 18 months.

The piece was sponsored by Ashworth Village, which will pay the artist while the piece is installed.

Another work, "Oculaire, " was installed two weeks ago by Carrboro artist Mike Roig. Roig's twelve-foot high kinetic sculpture is sitting in front of Syracuse Plastics and the Falcone Point neighborhood, a Habitat for Humanity community located at the corner of Falcone Parkway and Chatham Street. It'll be there until October.

The colorful pinwheel-like structure is sensitive to wind. It was sponsored by Gillolly & Associates Realty.

The loan program started to increase art exposure around town to more of the community - not just to those who can afford it. "We implemented it to bring art to more of the community. We wanted to be less exclusive," Sifford said.

Roig said the accessibility of public art allows Cary Visual Art to achieve that mission.

"The beauty of making art for public places is the opportunity to reach people from all walks of life," Roig said.