Cristiano Ronaldo Harry Kane statue: Sculptors say why likenesses don’t turn out
Sculpting statues in the likeness of famous personalities has always been a tricky endeavor. From the Harry Kane bronze statue in London to the Dwyane Wade sculpture in Miami, artists have often struggled to capture the true essence of their subjects.
One art critic famously compared the Harry Kane statue to a bulging-jawed comic strip character, while observers in Miami felt that the Dwyane Wade sculpture bore a closer resemblance to actor Laurence Fishburne than the former basketball star. And who could forget the infamous Cristiano Ronaldo bust in 2017, which gave the soccer star a chubby face and goofy smile?
Even statues of beloved sports figures like Mohamed Salah and Andy Murray have fallen victim to artistic missteps, with exaggerated features and inaccurate depictions drawing chuckles from the public. But as London-based sculptural conservator Lucy Branch points out, this obsession with accuracy is a relatively new phenomenon in the world of sculpture.
In classical times, sculptors had no interest in depicting people accurately and often recycled sculptures by simply changing the name on the plaque. Today, however, there is a growing expectation that commemorative statues should bear an exact likeness to their subjects.
To avoid the pitfalls that have plagued past statues, sculptors offer some valuable tips. Research is key, as sculptors like Hywel Pratley and Steve Winterburn emphasize the importance of studying countless images and getting to know the subject’s family and friends to capture their true characteristics.
Avoiding overly expressive features like smiles can also be a wise choice, as portraying teeth in sculpture can be quite challenging. Getting the profile right is another crucial step, as starting with a strong profile can provide a solid foundation for the rest of the sculpture.
The eyes are often considered the soul of a person, so sculptors like Winterburn focus on making them come alive in their work. And while commemorative sculptures historically stood on pedestals, there is a growing trend towards placing them closer to the ground for better accessibility – though this also means they are subject to closer scrutiny.
In the UK, involving the public in the selection process for commemorative statues has proven to be a successful approach. By allowing the community to vote on proposed projects, like the Emmeline Pankhurst statue in Manchester, a more balanced and inclusive decision-making process can be achieved.
Ultimately, creating a successful commemorative statue requires a delicate balance of artistry, research, and public input. By following these tips and embracing new approaches to the selection process, sculptors can ensure that their creations truly capture the essence of their subjects.
