Texas authorities declare Elmgreen & Dragset's Prada Marfa installation illegal advertising

Texas officials have classified Elmgreen and Dragset's 2005 Prada Marfa installation as unlawful roadside advertising. The Texas State Department issued this determination following scrutiny triggered by Playboy's placement of a 40-foot neon bunny along the same Valentine, Texas highway. Both works feature recognizable brand logos visible from the public roadway, potentially violating federal regulations requiring permits for such displays. While authorities have ordered removal of the Playboy bunny, they have not yet decided on action against the Prada Marfa structure. The installation sits on private land in Valentine, Texas. The Guardian reported the state's findings on September 25, 2014. Federal law governs advertising displays along highways. The controversy emerged during summer 2014.