Sculptor raises the baaa after vandalism
Bronze sculptor Tony Matthews and his ‘Last of the Stragglers’ art installation - with the lamb missing an ear. Photo: William Woodworth.
A recent, well-beloved addition to Blenheim’s series of public statues has seen some damage, but the sculptor is looking on the bright side.
The striking bronze ‘Last of the Stragglers’ sculpture in central Blenheim of an aging shepherd, his trusty dog and his flock of sheep saw one of the sheep’s ears bent off. But, sculptor Tony Matthews wasn’t surprised that his piece would need repairs.
“I come through town or get sent photos of kids playing on the statues so it could have been an accident with someone stepping on the wrong part”, says Tony.
“If it was malicious, it was always the most obvious part to be able to take off so I already had replacements ready.
“I actually thought I made that ear too big originally anyway, so I already made upgrades to the model for when it needed replacing.
“They are there to be a part of Blenheim’s charm so I’m glad people appreciate them that much to play and take photos with them”.