Controversy Erupts Over New Zealand’s Dinosaur Sculpture ‘Boom Boom’
Some have dubbed it an “eyesaur,” while others have called it “fabulous.” However, one thing is certain: Boom Boom, a striking seven-meter tall stainless steel dinosaur sculpture, is anything but boring. Installed just days ago at the Taupล Sculpture Park in New Zealand’s North Island, this sauropod statue has already ignited passionate discussions among locals. The artist and the commissioning team assert that this spirited debate is precisely the intention behind the artwork.
Artistic Vision and Community Reaction
Commissioned by the Taupล Sculpture Trust, Boom Boom was created by Slovenian-born artist Gregor Kregar. Kregar expressed that he was not surprised by the mixed reactions his work has elicited. “Sculpture sometimes stops people from their everyday interactions with the world,” he remarked in an interview. He believes that it is challenging to dislike a dinosaur sculpture, yet public opinion remains divided. Some community members have praised the piece for stimulating conversations about art, while others have criticized the $100,000 investment from local ratepayers, suggesting that the funds could have been better allocated elsewhere.
The funding for Boom Boom was finalized in 2018, prior to recent increases in the Taupล District Council’s rates, which function similarly to a council tax. After years of negotiations, the sculpture was finally installed last week, sparking further debate about its relevance to the community. Critics argue that the artwork lacks a connection to Taupล, which was recently named New Zealand’s most beautiful town in the 2023 Keep New Zealand Beautiful Awards. In response, Kregar pointed out that the rock on which the dinosaur stands is inspired by the region’s volcanic history.
The Historical Context of Taupล
Lake Taupล, after which the town is named, is a large caldera formed by a volcano that collapsed in on itself. This volcano last erupted approximately 1,800 years ago. The sauropods, which inspired Boom Boom, are among the few dinosaur species believed to have inhabited New Zealand. These creatures became extinct around 66 million years ago, along with most other non-avian dinosaurs. Kregar believes that the ongoing discussions surrounding Boom Boom could eventually lead to a shift in public sentiment. He envisions that as people engage with the sculpture, they may come to embrace it as part of their local identity.
Future of Boom Boom in Taupล
Kim Gillies, secretary of the Taupล Sculpture Trust, emphasized that the decision to commission Boom Boom was made thoughtfully. She noted that the sculpture was chosen specifically to help elevate Taupล’s profile. Gillies remarked, “When it comes to the art, safe is a bit boring, right?” This sentiment reflects the intention behind the installation: to provoke thought and discussion within the community.
As the debate continues, Boom Boom stands as a testament to the power of public art to inspire dialogue and reflection. Whether it becomes a beloved local landmark or remains a point of contention, the sculpture is already fulfilling its role in bringing attention to the artistic landscape of Taupล.
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