Thursday 19 June 2008

Criterion complex, Piccadilly Circus


When the sun sinks towards the horizon, the three divers that perpetually spring from the roof of the Criterion extension suddenly glow gold and fresh.
The group, called Three Graces, freeze a moment of rapid movement, like the manic Horses of Helios galloping through the foam in the fountain on the street corner below.
Both works are by sculptor and bar owner Rudy Weller, created in 1992 when the Criterion was redeveloped. The Horses of Helios are designed for tourists to stand against and be photographed, while the Three Graces add a touch of drama to the skyline.
I'm not sure about all this 'capture the moment' stuff in monumental sculpture. It can look just a tad...vulgar. Especially when gilt.

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