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A controversial sculpture of a giant hand with a human face, known as "Quasi," is set to be removed from atop City Gallery in Wellington, New Zealand, after five years. "Quasi," created by artist Ronnie van Hout, sparked immediate reactions with some locals branding it "disturbing" on social media.
The 16.4-foot-tall sculpture, is based on van Hout's own hand and face. "No other [sculpture]... arrived so dramatically into our street-scape," said Wellington Sculpture Trust Chair Jane Black. "He was a great cheerleader for Wellington's creativity… He will be missed and leaves a Quasi-shaped hole on our civic skyline.” "Quasi" will soon make its way to Australia, though a new venue has yet to be confirmed.