The controversial ‘Gateway’ sculpture by artist Michael Warren, which was previously erected in Dun Laoghaire has been returned to the artist this week.
‘Gateway’, a 20ft tall, 8 tonne corten steel sculpture by popular artist and sculptor Michael Warren has been the source of much controversy since its erection in 2002. It is speculated that the reason for the controversy is due to the phallic appearance of the piece.
The piece, which was commissioned in 2002 by Eddie Sweeney as part of the Per Cent for Art Scheme, proudly stood in place in Dun Laoghaire close to Dun Laoghaire’s 19th century county hall until its removal in 2009.
The enormous piece was placed in storage pending the completion of redevelopment works in the area in 2009. Though the local council had promised that the piece would be re-erected, it never was.
In 2013 councillors held a meeting with the artist and agreed to swap the piece for another.
Warren has kindly gifted the council with a bronze sculpture entitled ‘Angel Negro’, and multiple sites are under consideration for the new piece.
Meanwhile, a new home has been found for ‘Gateway’ in the UK where it will be proudly erected as a stunning representation of the artists work.