In Trafalgar Square, the home of one-armed Nelson's Column, there are four plinths for display of sculpture. Three contain heroic statues of generals, and the fourth has been empty since the square was created more than 150 years ago.
They've finally decided what to put on it: a sculpture of a pregnant woman who was a victim of Thalidomide, with no arms and stunted legs.
The Disability Rights Commission welcomed the statue as a source of pride, and a blow against the cult of perfection.Posted by Gene at March 17, 2004 07:16 AMBert Massie, the chairman of the commission, said: "I'm extremely proud that one of the most popular tourist attractions in London will display a very powerful sculpture of a disabled woman.
"Congratulations to Marc for realising that disabled bodies have a power and beauty rarely recognised in an age where youth and 'perfection' are idolised."