Nude Margaret Thatcher sculpture unveiled by artist

THE artist behind a controversial portrait of Myra Hindley is to reveal a nude statue of Margaret Thatcher.

The lady's not for clothing: The sculpture of Margaret Thatcher by Marcus Harvey. Picture: Getty Images

Leeds-born artist Marcus Harvey’s Maggie Island sculpture features the former prime minister lying on her side with a pair of bawdy, seaside-style “novelty breasts” and pigs heads on her hips.

The Young British Artist said the piece began as a Britannia figure that “personified the nation and mood”, which soon morphed into Thatcher as he played with the British love for “anarchic humour”.

Harvey said in November last year that he ‘hates much of what Thatcher did’ but that he can ‘see the benefits of some of her policies’.

He added: “She is one of the most important female figures in British history and also one of the most important politicians. Also the sexualised element of her is an important part of why she is still such a potent figure.”

“I don’t really believe anyone will be offended or preoccupied really … partly because there is a humorous cheeky seaside element to it as well.”

The sculpture has been influenced by political cartoonists including Steve Bell, and is made from bronze and jesmonite.

The Scotsman’s EU Referendum page: Keep up to date with latest news, polls and features.

DOWNLOAD THE SCOTSMAN APP ON ITUNES OR GOOGLE PLAY