Spitting Leaders, 2008

In the pond at Park Presikhaaf stands Spitting Leaders, a fountain featuring four former world leaders who continuously spit at each other. The busts depict Stalin, recognizable by his imposing mustache; Franco, a balding man; Louis XIV, with his characteristic large wig; and a fourth leader from South America, possibly Pinochet from Chile, Stroessner from Paraguay, or Juan Perón—subtly inviting visitors to test their historical knowledge.

The work of Fernando Sánchez Castillo (1974) is often controversial. In his sculptures, performances, and video work, he questions the symbolism of power. By twisting the formal language of political authority with irony, he exposes the temporality and absurdity of power. The audience regains a sense of autonomy by being able to laugh at subjects that would normally seem serious and untouchable.

Spitting Leaders was one of the audience favorites during Sonsbeek 2008. After the exhibition, the work was acquired by the municipality of Arnhem and moved from the Grote Vijver to the pond in Park Presikhaaf, where it still humorously highlights the fleeting nature of power.