Whitechapel Sculpture

As part of the London 2012 Festival, the Whitechapel Gallery has commissioned Rachel Whiteread to tart up the old facade (1901) with a sculpture of a golden vine, based on the Tree of Life motif that decorates the lower part of the terracotta building. Above is Rachel's scale plan and to the left is an example of her golden leaves. The Art Fund is supplying the readies for this sculpture, which will be unveiled in June (title link). I can't think of anything more inappropriate for sleazy Whitechapel High Street than golden leaves writhing over this Grade II listed building. What a waste of cash!