Topic overview
In brief
- Residents in Madeley are divided over a colorful repainting of a bench and post, originally carved from a horse chestnut tree.
- Artist Robert Dalton, who created the original work, expressed concern that the repainting misrepresents his artistic style.
- The bench is owned by Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, which views the repainting as a personal project of local parish councillors.
Summary
In a Staffordshire village, residents are divided over the recent repainting of a bench and post, originally carved from a fallen horse chestnut tree. The artwork, created by Robert Dalton, has sparked a debate among villagers, with some praising the bold colors while others deem it 'tacky.' Dalton, who began his chainsaw art career in 2018, expressed concern that the repainting misrepresents his artistic style, which typically features natural finishes rather than bright colors. The bench, dedicated to a late mayor, is owned by Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council, which regards the repainting as a personal project of some Madeley parish councillors. The report has limited confirmation from reliable sources, and opinions among residents vary widely, with some appreciating the visibility the new colors bring, while others feel it detracts from the original artwork's charm.