A new sculpture approved by the Encinitas City Council is causing a stir, echoing the long-standing debate over the Cardiff Kook, a statue that has become infamous in San Diego’s surf culture.
The latest addition to Encinitas’ public art collection features an unconventional scene: a small, cherubic figure of Neptune Jr., the Roman god of the sea, riding on the back of a hammerhead shark. The statue has already sparked backlash from some local residents, with critics questioning the depiction of a mythological figure interacting with a predator of the deep.
At a recent city council meeting, one speaker expressed their concerns: “Sharks are not playthings. They’re not pool toys,” according to NBC 7 San Diego. The controversy highlights the ongoing tensions between artistic expression and community values in the coastal town.
The Neptune Jr. statue, which will be installed at Leucadia Oaks Park, is part of a temporary art project. It will be on display for two years before being returned to the artist. This short-term arrangement stands in contrast to the infamous Cardiff Kook, a statue unveiled in 2007 at San Elijo State Beach that quickly became a viral sensation. Originally derided by locals for its awkward design, the Cardiff Kook has since been adorned with countless costumes and remains a beloved landmark despite its rocky start.
The decision to display Neptune Jr. in Encinitas is a bold move by the city, which has a history of embracing unconventional public art. However, the uproar over the statue suggests that the community remains divided on what constitutes tasteful and appropriate art for the coastal town.
Despite the criticism, supporters of the Neptune Jr. sculpture argue that it is simply an imaginative and lighthearted work of art. Time will tell if the controversy surrounding the piece will fade as quickly as it emerged or if it will cement its place in the growing collection of iconic San Diego surf town statues.
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