The installation of Boom Boom, a stainless steel dinosaur sculpture in Taupō Sculpture Park, has generated mixed reactions from locals, leading to discussions about public funding and the significance of art in community identity.
Controversial Dinosaur Sculpture Sparks Dialogue in New Zealand
Controversial Dinosaur Sculpture Sparks Dialogue in New Zealand
A striking seven-meter tall dinosaur sculpture in Taupō, New Zealand, named Boom Boom, has ignited a lively debate within the community regarding art, funding, and local identity.
In a move that has divided opinions among residents, Taupō Sculpture Park recently unveiled Boom Boom, a seven-meter tall stainless steel dinosaur sculpture that has quickly captured attention. While some have hailed the artwork as "fabulous", others have taken to social media to critique the $100,000 investment secured through local ratepayer contributions.
Commissioned by the Taupō Sculpture Trust and crafted by Slovenian artist Gregor Kregar, the reflective surfaces of Boom Boom are designed to provoke thought and conversation. Kregar shared with BBC News, "Sculpture sometimes stops people from their everyday interactions with the world... it's really hard to hate a sculpture of a dinosaur." The artist's intent appears to be fulfilled; many in the community are debating its placement and funding, blending art with public discourse.
One enthusiastic supporter of Boom Boom noted, "Fantastic! Getting people talking about art," while another voiced frustration over the expenditure, suggesting alternative communal uses for the funds. This discussion comes in light of rising costs in Taupō District Council's rate structure, intensifying scrutiny around such public arts investments.
Despite mixed reactions, Kregar emphasized the stone base of the sculpture represents the region's volcanic heritage, reinforcing the connection between the artwork and local history. Lake Taupō, after which the town is named, is situated in an area shaped by volcanic activity, adding an intriguing aspect to the sculpture’s relevance.
With sauropods known to have roamed New Zealand millions of years ago, Kregar remains hopeful that public sentiment will shift positively over time. Reflecting on potential local impact, he stated, "you put the sculpture out there, there is a reaction... it becomes part of the local identity." The secretary of the Taupō Sculpture Trust, Kim Gillies, also stressed that the goal of commissioning Boom Boom is to enhance the recognition of Taupō as a cultural destination, indicating that "safe is a bit boring."
In a community defined by its natural beauty, the question remains: can Boom Boom, despite its polarizing reception, cultivate a new cultural landmark within Taupō?
