Fay Young

Gormfull on the Water of Leith

June 23rd, 2010

One piece by the bridge at Stockbridge

By the time we got there the red bikini was off.  But the naked body in the water was discreetly half hidden by foliage.  A couple pass by not quite sure what to make of it, “Look,” says the woman, “there’s someone in the water.”   Which would Gormley prefer, I wonder, the innocent reaction of passers by or the red bikini cover up?

It was a pity we missed the bikini. Apparently the Metro managed to snap it and I am not sure which is funnier: the thought of someone going to the trouble to attach a bikini to Antony Gormley’s (obviously masculine) work of art, or the effort someone else took to remove it.  Would that be the new art wardens of Edinburgh?

Whatever. Gormley’s six pieces are a gift.  As blogged by Ray a few weeks ago they stretch from the Modern Art Gallery down to Leith Docks, marking the rise and fall of the water. It is a treat to discover them one by one – our Sunday morning walk through cyclists and gently strolling families on the Water of Leith Walkway had a sense of purpose and a real feeling of discovery when we spotted them.  Just standing there, gently rusting in the sunshine.

I think my favourite definition of art is  Ian Hamilton Findlay’s:  “Art is a small adjustment.” It fits Gormley’s figures beautifully.  He casts the figure and leaves nature to make the small adjustment. The rust is a touch of genius.  And maybe the bikini was too.

Rust in peace near the Modern Art Gallery: thanks to Tommy and Ray for the pictures. And Tommy for the heading too.

Entry Filed under: Happy Birthday