When it comes to public art, there's a fine line between what's considered a bold statement and what's seen as a step too far. This line seems to have been tested in Naples, Italy, where a giant sculpture has risen, causing quite the stir among locals and tourists alike. The artwork in question? A towering, 11.8-meter-tall sculpture of a penis, veiny and vibrant, standing proudly in the Piazza Municipio.



The sculpture, cheekily named 'Tu si 'na cosa grande' ('You're a big thing'), has become the centre of a heated debate. Is it a thought-provoking masterpiece or an offensive eyesore? The colourful phallus, accompanied by two giant hearts pierced by Cupid's arrow, has certainly turned heads and sparked conversations.


The late artist Gaetano Pesce, who passed away six months ago in New York City at the age of 83, was the mastermind behind this controversial piece. Pesce's creation was inspired by the iconic Pulcinella character, a staple of the Commedia dell’Arte and a symbol of Neapolitan culture. The sculpture was intended to be a stylized representation of Pulcinella's relationship with the hearts of the Neapolitan people, expressing the artist's gratitude for the energy that the city and its inhabitants brought to his work.



Despite the artist's intentions, the reception on social media has been mixed, to say the least. Some have called the sculpture 'disgusting' and a 'piece of crap,' unable to see past the shock value to the artistic merit it may hold. Others have been more critical of its placement in a public square, questioning the appropriateness of such a bold, sexualized figure in a space frequented by families and tourists.

In defense of the artwork, Naples' current mayor, Gaetano Manfredi, has stepped forward. He acknowledged the initial shock value but emphasized the deeper meaning behind the sculpture, relating it to the city's cultural heritage. Mayor Manfredi suggested that the very fact the sculpture is being discussed so passionately is a sign that it has achieved its purpose. He praised Pesce as one of the 'world's greatest artists,' whose work has now become a talking point for people from all walks of life.

The sculpture stands where Michelangelo Pistoletto’s 'Venere Degli Stracci' once was before it perished in a fire. This replacement has not gone unnoticed, with some feeling that the new installation does not live up to the artistic legacy of its predecessor.



As we ponder the role of public art in our society, it's worth considering the broader questions this sculpture raises. Should public art be comfortable and familiar, or should it challenge us and provoke discussion? Where do we draw the line between artistic expression and public decency? And most importantly, how does art contribute to the identity of a city and its people?

For those in Naples, the conversation is far from over. The sculpture is set to remain in place until December 19, giving everyone plenty of time to form their own opinions on this audacious piece of art.
We at the Seniors Discount Club are curious to hear your thoughts on this matter. Have you ever encountered a piece of public art that made you stop and think, or perhaps even made you feel uncomfortable? Join the conversation and let us know in the comments below!