What's happened
A bronze statue of Queen Elizabeth II unveiled in Antrim Castle Gardens has sparked widespread criticism for its lack of resemblance to the late monarch. Created by Anto Brennan, the statue has been described as offensive and has led to calls for its removal, despite some local support.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The Guardian reported that critics described the statue as an 'insult to her majesty's memory,' while The Independent noted that local councillor Vera McWilliam stated, 'We have to be honest, it does not resemble the queen in any shape or form.' Sky News highlighted that the council received a mix of responses, with some defending the artist's effort despite the negative feedback. Metro emphasized that the statue's unveiling has reignited discussions about public art and its representation. BBC News also captured visitor sentiments, with many expressing disappointment over the statue's likeness to the queen.
How we got here
The statue was unveiled on September 6, 2024, to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away on September 8, 2022. It was commissioned by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and features the queen alongside Prince Philip and two corgis.
Common question
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Why is the new statue of Queen Elizabeth II controversial?
The unveiling of a new bronze statue of Queen Elizabeth II in Antrim Castle Gardens has sparked a wave of mixed reactions. While some visitors appreciate the tribute, many others criticize its likeness to the late monarch. This page explores the public's response and the broader implications of public art in reflecting societal values.
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Why is the new statue of Queen Elizabeth II causing controversy?
The recent unveiling of a bronze statue of Queen Elizabeth II in Antrim Castle Gardens has sparked significant debate and criticism. Many are questioning the artistic intent behind the statue, its resemblance to the late monarch, and what this means for public art. Below, we explore the various facets of this controversy and what it reveals about societal values and expectations.
More on these topics
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Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, is the husband of Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth realms.
Philip was born into the Greek and Danish royal families.
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Northern Ireland is variously described as a country, province or region which is part of the United Kingdom. Located in the northeast of the island of Ireland, Northern Ireland shares a border to the south and west with the Republic of Ireland.