Van Gogh loses his revolver and razor in Brixton tribute

A PIPE, revolver and razor blade have been removed from a statue of Van Gogh in Brixton, south London, after they were deemed inappropriate given its association with violent crime.

Anthony Padgett, the sculptor, unveiled his bronze of the Dutch painter last week, near where Van Gogh lodged after moving to London in 1873.

Designs for the still life depicted Van Gogh’s head surrounded by a selection of his personal effects, including a pipe, a cut-throat razor and a revolver.

The artist severed his ear with a razor blade in 1888 and died two years later after shooting himself in the chest with a Lefaucheux revolver.

Mr Padgett said he chose to consult with Lambeth Council about the inclusion of the items before seeking permission for his artwork to be sited in Van Gogh Walk, a garden area close to Hackford Road where Van Gogh lived.

Following an “informal discussion” with officers, he decided to remove the gun, razor blade and pipe because of Brixton’s perceived associations with violent crime and drugs. The modified statue, which stands next to a primary school named after Van Gogh, includes the Dutchman’s head accompanied by two sunflowers and a pile of books.

The work is part of a series of seven statues – four to be placed in the UK and three in Europe – to commemorate the artist’s life and career.

“There’s been a lot in the news about knife crime, which is a huge issue at the moment,” said Mr Padgett.

“It’s important for people to know that these items aren’t in it so that they can then understand that the sculpture has different manifestations.”

A Lambeth council spokesperson said it had been “supportive” of the work but confirmed it asked Mr Padgett to remove the items.

“One piece featured a gun and razor which we informally told him we’d prefer to not have included when that was offered as an option, particularly as the site is next to a school.” Mr Padgett said: “I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s about censorship, it’s about sensitivity to the area.”

The commission will stand in Brixton for at least 15 years.