In the early hours of Monday December 21st 2009, twelve carousel horses took centre stage at the heart of London's financial district of Bank, commenting on the controversial issue of large annual bonuses awarded to prosperous earners in the city, many responsible for the economic meltdown. In the wake of Alistair Darling's introduction of the 50% 'super-tax', it reflected the views of the city as a financial playground.
Southend-based artist Laura Keeble installed this new site-specific artwork outside London's Bank of England. Decorated with past issues of The Financial Times, lights and garlands made from replicated international bank notes, the bucking and galloping horses sat upon their golden poles, circling the area. Reflecting the ups and downs of the world's stock market, Keeble's fairground horses mocked the volatility of the financial climate and how many city investors have benefited from these turbulent times.
Best known for her satirical public interventions, Keeble's work uses humour and irony to tackle more pressing questions at hand. Forgotten Something!? - a sardonic replica of Damien Hirst's diamond skull - was left discarded with rubbish outside of London's White Cube Gallery.