Boom Boom Sparks Debate in New Zealand: The Dinosaur Sculpture Divide

The seven-meter tall stainless steel dinosaur named Boom Boom has ignited passionate discussions in Taupō, New Zealand, as locals express mixed feelings about its presence and funding, while the artist maintains that such controversy is part of the art's purpose.

In the heart of New Zealand's North Island, a newly installed dinosaur sculpture, dubbed Boom Boom, is stirring up vibrant discussions among the locals of Taupō. This seven-meter tall piece, crafted from stainless steel, has attracted both enthusiasm and skepticism since its unveiling at the Taupō Sculpture Park. Commissioned by the Taupō Sculpture Trust and created by Slovenian artist Gregor Kregar, Boom Boom is hailed by many as "fabulous" while others dismiss it as an "eyesaur."

The response to the sculpture has been mixed, with some community members celebrating its arrival and acknowledging its role in promoting dialogue about art. "Fantastic! Getting people talking about art. Broadening the conversation," one supporter remarked on social media. However, not everyone shares this sentiment; one local criticized the use of $100,000 of public funds for what they deem an unneeded addition, suggesting the money could have been better spent on community services.

Having finalized the funding in 2018, years of negotiations culminated in the sculpture's recent installation, at a time when the Taupō District Council is also experiencing increased rates. Critics have pointed out a perceived lack of relevance between the sculpture and the Taupō area, which recently earned accolades as New Zealand's most beautiful town.

However, Kregar counters this by linking the sculpture's rock base to the region's volcanic past, as Taupō's namesake lake is situated atop a caldera from a massive historical eruption. Sauropods, the dinosaur species that inspired Boom Boom, roamed the lands of New Zealand nearly 66 million years ago before their extinction.

The dialogue surrounding Boom Boom, according to Kregar, is emblematic of how art can spark discussion and eventually lead to acceptance. As he noted, such engagement may prompt residents to embrace the sculpture as part of their local identity. Kim Gillies, secretary of the Taupō Sculpture Trust, emphasized that the decision to feature Boom Boom was made with careful consideration, aiming to establish Taupō as a notable destination. "Safe is a bit boring, right?" Gillies pondered, hinting at the balance between innovation and tradition in public art.