Rotterdam, a city known for its modern architecture and vibrant art scene, is also home to one of the most controversial statues in the world: the Rotterdam Santa Claus. This seemingly jolly Santa, instead of holding a Christmas tree, is clutching a butt plug, causing quite a stir among locals and tourists alike.
When I first visited Rotterdam in early 2019, I knew little about the statue and wasn’t aware of its massive size. It caught me off guard in the most amazing way, especially because Rotterdam is a city filled with art on its streets. Seeing this statue made a lot of sense to me.
Created by renowned American artist Paul McCarthy in 2001, some people in the city met the statue with outrage and disgust. Many considered it tasteless and offensive, sparking a debate about the role of art in public spaces. Some argued that it was a hypocritical position in a society saturated with commercial sex. In contrast, others believed it was simply inappropriate for public display. I disagree with that perspective.
Despite the controversy, the statue found its permanent home in Rotterdam’s Binnenwegplein in 2008 after being passed around the city like a hot potato. Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen even provided temporary refuge for the statue, highlighting its significance in art.
Paul McCarthy’s Santa Claus: Rotterdam’s Unlikely Icon
But why the butt plug? McCarthy’s work often explores themes that are typically repressed in society, such as excrement, bodily fluids, and perverse sexuality. He uses humor and shock value to challenge viewers’ perceptions and expose the darker side of human nature. In this case, the butt plug serves as a commentary on the commercialization of Christmas and the hypocrisy of Western society.
Although children in the Netherlands typically do not believe in Santa Claus, he is easily recognized as representing American consumerism. McCarthy’s Santa Claus, with its suggestive object, critiques this consumerism, exposing the falseness and superficiality often associated with the holiday season.
For me, the Rotterdam Santa Claus is not just a statue; it’s a conversation starter. It challenges our concepts of art, decency, and cultural values. It pushes us to confront uncomfortable truths and question the status quo. Whether you find it offensive or thought-provoking, there’s no denying that this statue has left its mark on Rotterdam’s cultural landscape.
So, if you’re ever in Rotterdam, check out the infamous Santa Claus statue. It reminds us that art can be both beautiful and disturbing and that sometimes, the most controversial pieces are the ones that make us think the most.
Click here to learn more about the statue’s controversy and journey to its final location.
We walked from Rotterdam Central train station to the Hostel Ani & Haakien and towards Hamburg, where we were doing our infamous 52-week burger challenge. While walking there, we found the statue. When you reach the statue, remember to include the Cube House.
Following the map below, it’s easy to spot the Rotterdam Santa Claus.
Santa’s Secret in Rotterdam: A Story of Art and Outrage
Eendrachtsplein, 3012 LA
Rotterdam, Netherlands
