Italian city councillor resigns over 'penis' Christmas tree
He described the artwork as 'a penis that disfigures the city'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.
A city councillor has resigned his position after he likened artwork in the shape of a Christmas tree to a "penis" and it was installed without consulting him.
Vittorio Sgarbi, celebrity art critic and former Italian MP, resigned his seat on Urbino City Council in Sicily.
The 62-year-old described the artwork in his resignation letter as "a useless, immoral and ugly thing... a penis that disfigures the city", reports La Stampa.
Mr Sgarbi, a noted opponent of modern art, was elected as Urbino's council member for culture in June 2014
His specific role was to protect the historical city centre's artisitc and cultural identity.
Mr Sgarbi had first threatened to resign if the metal and glass structure was not taken down and formally stepped down on Monday. It still stands.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments