Controversial 'Dalek' cone sculptures get rehomed

A controversial public art installation in Surrey, "likened to a cross between Madonna's pointy bra and the Daleks", has been rehomed, a university says.

Entitled A Hand's Turn, the 20 large metal cones were dubbed "an eyesore" at their previous location on Farnham's Riverside Walk, where they were first unveiled in 2023 as part of a council-led public art commission.

The sculptures were also damaged by vandals and became too hot during the summer months, causing safety concerns.

Artist Natalie Bradwell said she was "grateful" the cones were getting a "second chance" at their new base - a sculpture garden situated on the campus of the town's University for the Creative Arts (UCA).

Bradwell, who created the £19,500 installation alongside Livia Spinolo, has worked on renovating the cones, which measure up to 8ft (2.4m) tall, restoring their golden sheen which had weathered and darkened over time.

"Any dents have been corrected by climbing inside and hammering them out," she said.

Bradwell continued: "They were also cleaned, polished and lacquered, so the patina is now permanently gold, compared to the original brass coating.

"I hope locals find a new affection for the cones in their new home because they are intended to be hugged, spun and played with - their unintended percussive ability makes tapping them great fun."

She added: "What a special place Farnham is for its commitment to craft and community. It didn't give up on the cones, so neither will I."

Rehomed ahead of the town's October craft month, the sculptures have already attracted positive reactions at their new site.

Sophy Smith, executive dean at UCA's Farnham School of Creative and Cultural Industries, described it as public art "at its absolute best" and said the cone shapes carried "additional significance given the town's malting, pottery and kiln-making heritage".

Outi Remes, director of the nearby New Ashgate Gallery, says its "relocation will give the piece a fresh and positive context", allowing it to be "properly experienced and understood".

Meanwhile, Mayor of Farnham, Graham White, says he hopes the work will "be an inspiration for future generations of artists".

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