But, It’s “Art”
Saddamned if I know what it is
It’s the latest sculptural masterpiece to go on display in one of London’s parks – but, in time honoured Rolf Harris fashion, can you guess what it is, kids?
Could it be a depiction of our disposable, consumerist society? Do the plastic sheeting and cardboard boxes stand as a silent tribute to the problems of homelessness that affect our cities? Does the adhesive tape wrapping and obscuring the central form of the work interrogate our misguided notions of authorial intent as being inherent to the appreciation of art?
Still not got it? Want to know the answer? You’ll kick yourselves.
OK, then. The sculpture, of course, is of Saddam Hussein’s first wife, Sajida Talfah. Look here’s a picture of her:
See the resemblance?
The sculpture stands in Napoleon Garden in Holland Park, and the sculptor, Graham Hudson, says that the name inspired his art.
‘It’s a beautiful spot named after the most successful fascist dictator in history,’ he said in a recent interview. ‘So we’ve got fascism and leisure, what a great combination… I guess even dictators need a bit of R and R and a cuddle now and again.’
The lower portion of the statue, an oil drum, represents Iraq. The upper portion represents a woman – ‘possibly one past her prime’ – trying to maintain her appearance.
The spot in Napoleon Gardens has long been a venue for contemporary sculpture, ever since an older piece by noted artist, typographer and deviant Eric Gill was removed due to ageing. Kensington and Chelsea council paid around £2,000 ($3,500)for Hudson’s work.
Sajida Talfah has yet to comment on the sculpture. To be fair, it’s unlikely that her views will be found out in the near future, as she vanished in 2006 after being accused of funding Sunni insurgents in Iraq.
Sheesh.. and to think I’ve been tossing my “Art” in the dumpster every week
