Art Installation Likened to Madonna's Bra Moved After Causing Burns
A £20,000 sculpture in Farnham, Surrey, has been relocated after complaints that its spinning metal cones became dangerously hot in the sun, burning children's hands.
An art installation in Farnham, Surrey, costing £20,000 and described by some as resembling Madonna's iconic cone bra, has been moved to a shaded location after reports of it causing injuries. The "A Hand's Turn" exhibit, created by artists Natalie Bradwell and Livia Spinolo and installed in 2023, features 20 gold-colored metal cones of varying sizes.
Residents had previously complained that the artwork was an eyesore, with some likening it to Daleks from Doctor Who or anti-tank traps. More significantly, several locals raised concerns about its safety, alleging that the spinning structures became excessively hot when exposed to direct sunlight. These claims were supported by reports of children being burned or injured after touching the heated cones.
The artwork, which was funded by the University for the Creative Arts (UCA), was installed at a cost of £19,500. Beyond the heat concerns, the cones also suffered damage from vandalism on occasion.
Following the complaints, the cones have now been relocated to a sculpture garden on the UCA campus in Farnham. A spokesperson confirmed that the new site, situated "underneath tall trees and various foliage," should mitigate issues related to hot weather.
When initially installed, the cones were intended to evoke forms related to traditional local industries, such as grain piles, hop-drying roofs, wool-spinning spindles, or pottery vessels. Artist Natalie Bradwell expressed gratitude for the opportunity to re-exhibit the work, stating her hope that locals would develop a new appreciation for the cones in their new home. She emphasized that the pieces are designed to be interacted with, providing "unintended percussive ability" and fun.
Sophy Smith, executive dean at UCA's Farnham School of Creative and Cultural Industries, described the artwork as an example of "public art at its absolute best." The Mayor of Farnham, Graham White, conveyed his hope that the work would serve as an inspiration for future artists.