Quasi: The Controversial Sculpture of Wellington

A Giant Hand Over Wellington
Perched precariously on the roof of the City Gallery in Wellington, New Zealand, the giant sculpture known as Quasi has been a striking feature of the city’s skyline for five years. Standing at an impressive 16 feet tall—almost 5 meters—this creation by Australian sculptor Ronnie van Hout has captured the attention of locals and visitors alike. With its unsmiling human face and outstretched fingers, Quasi has evoked a spectrum of emotions, from horror to delight.

The Mixed Reactions
Since its installation, Quasi has been a polarizing figure in Wellington. Some residents found the sculpture disturbing, while others embraced its eccentricity. The piece has sparked debates about public art and its role in society. Ben McNulty, a Wellington city council member, reflected on the sculpture’s impact, stating, “This is either a great day for Wellington or a terrible day for Wellington, and there’s not much view in between.” His personal sentiment leaned towards devastation at Quasi’s impending departure.

A Unique Creation
Quasi is crafted from steel, polystyrene, and resin, and its design is based on scans of van Hout’s own hand and face. The name “Quasi” is a nod to Quasimodo, the bellringer from Victor Hugo’s classic novel “The Hunchback of Notre-Dame,” which adds a layer of depth to the sculpture’s identity. This connection has led some to attribute a male gender to the piece, further complicating its public perception.

From Christchurch to Wellington
Originally unveiled in Christchurch in 2016, Quasi quickly became a topic of controversy. An op-ed in a local newspaper argued for its removal, citing that one of its fingers appeared to be “inappropriately and belligerently pointing” at passersby. Van Hout’s response was both playful and poignant: “Perhaps the monster just wants to be loved?”

In 2019, Quasi found a new home in Wellington, where it initially faced skepticism. McNulty recalled, “He arrived and I won’t say the city unanimously hated him, but I reckon 80% were like, ‘What is this monster? What have we done?’” Over time, however, many residents began to warm to the sculpture, forming a “pro-Quasi” group that embraced its quirky charm.

A Staple of the City
As Quasi prepares to leave, many in Wellington express a sense of loss. Anja Porthouse, a local resident, described the sculpture as “really disturbing but a staple of Wellington now.” The giant hand has become a symbol of the city, representing both its artistic spirit and the complexities of public opinion.

The Departure
Quasi is set to be removed from its rooftop perch by helicopter, destined for an undisclosed location in Australia. Van Hout remarked, “Everything comes to an end eventually. I am sure it will be missed, but even Lovecraftian nightmares have to return to where they came from.” This sentiment resonates with many who have come to appreciate Quasi’s presence over the years.

Social Media Reactions
The announcement of Quasi’s removal has ignited a flurry of reactions on social media, ranging from dismay to humor. Some locals have joked about the “curse” associated with the sculpture, while others have speculated about its future. One New Zealander quipped, “He’s going to The Hague,” highlighting the playful banter surrounding Quasi’s departure.

A Reflection of Wellington’s Challenges
Throughout its time in the city, Quasi has been a witness to Wellington’s struggles, including issues with earthquake-prone buildings and political division. McNulty noted that the sculpture has adorned the skyline during some of the city’s most difficult times, serving as a reminder of resilience amid adversity.

Final Thoughts from the Community
As the day of Quasi’s removal approaches, the community reflects on its impact. Jane Black, head of the Wellington Sculpture Trust, expressed that “he will be missed,” while the city’s mayor, Tory Whanau, shared a contrasting sentiment: “I think there’s a strong feeling of relief.” This duality encapsulates the complex relationship between public art and community sentiment, leaving a lasting impression on Wellington’s cultural landscape.