This kinetic sculpture, normally installed on Rotterdam’s busy Binnenwegplein, has a contested history. After recent renovations of the square causing an elevation of the ground, the blades of the sculpture rotated at a mere 2.11 meters above street level. The sculpture was hence considered a safety hazard because of the danger of it hitting the heads of passers-by.
In prevention of any accidents, the sculpture was fenced off in 2012 and temporarily removed later that same year. Since then Sculpture International Rotterdam (SIR), to whose collection the sculpture belongs, and the Public Works Department have attempted to find a solution in close conversation with the estate of the artist, who passed away in 2002. With no concrete date set yet, the sculpture is now presented immobilized and in parts, awaiting its return to the public space.
Note:
in April 2016, the sculpture was re-installed in full glory at its original site at Binnenwegplein in Rotterdam, on a 55 cm higher base.
However, a few weeks later, the panels were severely damaged again: early in the morning the piece was hit by an unknown truck driver, leaving the piece in a state of total-loss. It is unsure, when or if, the piece will be able to be restored.