The seven-metre tall stainless steel dinosaur sculpture, Boom Boom, has sparked heated debate among locals in New Zealand just days after its installation at Taupó Sculpture Park. The mirror-finish masterpiece, created by Slovenian-born artist Gregor Kregar, is challenging perceptions of art and culture.
The Dinosaur That Stopped People in Their Tracks: Boom Boom‘s New Zealand Debut
Boom Boom, a seven-metre tall stainless steel dinosaur sculpture in New Zealand, has sparked heated debate among locals just days after its installation at Taupō Sculpture Park. The mirror-finish masterpiece was commissioned by the Taupō Sculpture Trust and created by Slovenian-born artist ‘Gregor Kregar’.
Boom boom is a term commonly associated with explosive sounds, often used in music and sound effects.
In music, 'boom boom' refers to the rhythmic pattern created by deep bass notes or drumbeats.
This pattern is frequently used in genres like hip-hop, electronic dance music (EDM), and pop.
The term can also describe a sudden, loud noise, such as an explosion or a crash.
The artwork has already prompted a mixed reaction from the public, with some describing it as ‘fabulous‘ while others have called it ‘boring’. However, according to ‘Gregor Kregar’, this mixed response is exactly what he was hoping for. He believes that sculpture can sometimes stop people from their everyday interactions with the world, making them hate something they otherwise wouldn’t.
A Connection to Taupō’s Volcanic History
While some have questioned whether Boom Boom has a connection to Taupō, ‘Gregor Kregar’ says the rock on which the dinosaur stands is inspired by the area’s volcanic history. The town of Taupō is named after Lake Taupō, a large caldera that was formed when a volcano collapsed in on itself around 1,800 years ago.
Sauropods, the inspiration for Boom Boom, are believed to have lived in New Zealand, although they became extinct 66 million years ago along with most other non-avian dinosaurs. ‘Gregor Kregar’ believes that the spirited debate surrounding the sculpture means it could eventually win over those who were initially critical of it.
A Local Identity?
Kim Gillies, secretary of the Taupō Sculpture Trust, says that the decision to commission Boom Boom was not taken lightly, but was chosen because it would help put Taupō on the map. She believes that art should be bold and exciting, rather than safe and unoriginal. As ‘Gregor Kregar’ puts it, ‘No bones about it – dinosaurs are a great way to make an impact.‘
The debate surrounding Boom Boom serves as a reminder that public opinion can have a significant impact on our perceptions of art and culture. While some may view the sculpture as a bold statement or a celebration of local identity, others may see it as unnecessary or unoriginal. One thing is certain, however – Boom Boom has already stopped people in their tracks and will undoubtedly continue to spark conversation for years to come.
