A TOWERING three-metre high sculpture of a black woman situated on the lawns behind the De La Warr Pavilion has been vandalised for a second time in a matter of weeks.
The impressive structure, the latest example of the venue’s ongoing commitment to the arts, had white paint daubed all over it overnight between the evening of Sunday, May 14 and the early hours of the following day.
It was subsequently covered in a large green tarpaulin which will remain in place until repairs are carried out.
Many have already voiced their outrage over the latest act of vandalism with Howard Martin, President of Bexhill Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, saying: ”This sheer and wanton vandalism is atrocious.
“The area around the De La Warr Pavilion has become a magnet for vandals and little has been done to prevent it.
“Last year Bexhill Chamber of Commerce backed a ‘shopwatch’ scheme that would have included CCTV coverage for the area but this was not supported by the local councils.
“Our own Coronation event had a trader vehicle vandalised overnight recently too.
“Our Chamber fully supports public art as an effective way of embracing civic pride and fostering a sense of place for our community.
“Our thoughts are with the De La Warr Pavilion team having to deal with this attack on our community.
“If this attack was in anyway politically motivated then those responsible should face the full force of the law and all politicians should utterly condemn this act.”
The public sculpture is by American artist Tschabalala Self and is entitled “Seated” and is an imposing three metres-high.
It is made from patinated bronze. Using an everyday object – a seat – it is described as an entry point for questions of permission and performance within public space.
According to the De La Warr, its subject – “poised, immaculately dressed, glancing to her left” – emboldens onlookers to sit with confidence and comfort.
The artist said: “Taking a seat is a universal act of leisure and calm.
“I wanted to create a monumental sculpture for the public that spoke to this simple joy.
“The woman is strong, beautiful and self-possessed.
“She represents all individuals, but women in particular, who understand the power and importance of simple gestures that assert their right to take up space”.
You can learn more about the sculpture at: https://bit.ly/3KO6dgb
The sculpture is due to be on the lawns until October 29.
The De La Warr had urged people not to climb on the artwork to ensure it does not get damaged but clearly that message was not heeded by the vandals who launched this latest attack.
Mr Martin added: “What is wrong with these people? Is nothing sacred any more? Many organisations are doing their best to make our town as attractive as possible and yet there are those who seem to take great delight in ruining that. It is both shocking and demoralising.”
