No need to pinch yourself here, you’re not dreaming. These really are images of a giant peg ‘pinching’ the turf in Manchester’s Spinningfields.
The bizarre art installation by Altrincham-based designers Custom Landscape Designs currently resides next to Carluccio’s at The Lawns.
Spinningfields’ lawns won the UK Event Awards Unusual Venue of the Year in 2013 and the peg installation as a contemporary piece of public sculpture is an attempt by to enhance this reputation further.
SOMETHING A BIT DIFFERENT: Art installation hopes to gain a reaction from people
Head of Marketing Libby Collingburn, from Capital Properties who commissioned the art installation, believes Spinningfields is the perfect location for the peg.
“Spinningfields has always had a close connection with art, sculpture and public space,” she said.
“This installation is very much a continuation of this synergy and will help to further enrich and animate the environment.
“It’s great to have been able to work with local designers and we’re looking forward to seeing people’s reactions when they see it.”
However the peg divided opinion among the passing Mancunians at The Lawns.
James Swindley, 22, a student studying in Manchester, said: “Yeah, you need a peg when viewing this piece of art – for your nose though. It stinks! I mean it’s rubbish, of course.”
Bryan Johnson, 56, from Salford, said: “I like it it’s a bit quirky but I think that fits in well with Spinningfields it’s a unique place.”
TO HOLD YOUR NOSE? Some Mancunians say the art piece ‘stinks’
“It’s looks like it’s pinching the ground,” said Stephen Tenwick, 25, from Trafford. “I don’t really understand how anyone would come up with the idea but I suppose it is something different.”
“I just don’t get it!” said Jamal Potts, 19, from Hulme. “Why anyone would want to look at a giant peg, surely they could’ve thought of something better than that.”
“I think it is quality it’s so random,” said Paul Williamson, 27, Sale. “But I think it’s great and it’s contemporary art and it fits in with the kind of vibe Spinningfields gives off.”
“I just think it’s a bit stupid,” said Chloe Macken, 35, Stockport. “I don’t like it and I don’t know why anyone would come up with the idea to build a giant peg.”
Images courtesy of Chris Payne, with thanks.
