Major sculpture will trigger art debate

A major and controversial bronze sculpture has been loaned to the University by a leading figure in the art world to highlight Dundee's contribution to quality and thought provoking public art. Now negotiations are ongoing for a suitable site to display it to best effect.

The Queen of the Night - a nine foot high statue of a masked woman wielding a wreath of burning penises - is likely to prove something of a conversation piece.

The bronze has been generously loaned by renowned sculptor Michael Sandle, most famous for his vast war memorial commission Malta Siege Bell Memorial. Head of the School of Fine Art Professor Alan Robb described the loan as "a most exciting opportunity for Duncan of Jordanstone and the city to come to terms with and enjoy an extremely powerful sculptural statement - one which deals with male emasculation by women."

The formidable Queen is based on Kali, the Indian goddess of love and revenge and features breasts cast from lemon-squeezers. The sculpture, which was carefully transported north from Holland Park in London by special container, is currently being held in a secret location under wraps until a suitable site is prepared. Favourite at present is a revamped entrance area in front of Duncan of Jordanstone's Crawford Building on the Perth Road.

"Choosing a fitting site is a crucial element in displaying public art to best advantage," says Professor Robb. "This very powerful and dark sculpture needs a location where its bold and uncompromising message can make its full impact."

Michael Sandle, who has already visited the new home of his Queen, is expected to return for a special installation ceremony.

Well known for his black imagery and difficult subject matter, Sandle regularly tackles themes of war, death destruction, inhumanity and media manipulation. He is described in Bronze, the book of Contemporary British Sculpture Holland Park as "a deeply humane person whose motivation is frequently misjudged".

The loan comes at a time when the City is preparing for the unveiling of two rather different bronze sculptures based on comic characters Desperate Dan and Minnie the Minx which are intended to grace the City Square.

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