Genesis Belanger

These bronze figures offer Genesis Belanger’s interpretation of Lady Justice, an allegorical figure whose history dates back to ancient civilisations. Such figures are ubiquitous in civic centres, including atop New York’s City Hall, visible at the north end of the park. Traditional depictions of Lady Justice blindfolded suggest her unbiased fairness, holding scales and a sword, symbolising swift justice. Belanger’s sculptures are only partially blind here, not out of impartiality, but self-regard. The work represents the artist’s interpretation of a classic symbol of civic virtue at a time when public trust in government is eroding.

In her transformation of City Hall Park, Belanger reimagines familiar public elements, such as gardens, fountains, and civic monuments, through her unique sculptural language. Visitors are greeted by large-scale bronze figures that reinterpret the allegorical figure of Lady Justice with a contemporary perspective. This bold intervention encourages viewers to reflect on humanity's intricate relationship with nature and the merging boundaries between authenticity and artifice in public spaces.

The exhibition, titled Heads or Tails, is characterised by floral tones that coexist alongside muted surfaces, mirroring the aesthetic of the nearby fountain and traditional public statuary. Belanger’s collaboration with the Public Art Fund, Perrotin, and Pace led to the creation of Lady Justice Impartial and Lady Justice Unbiased. One of the sculptures began as a full-body clay figure sculpted by the artist. We worked with Belanger to 3D scan it and ensure the enlargement accurately reflected her original vision.

The other sculpture began as a half-body clay figure including the torso, head, and arms that were sculpted by the artist. The PMMA forms for both works were prepared in shell ahead of bronze casting. As the sculptures progressed through divest, casting, and finishing, each stage unveiled new layers of character within the work. The final patina process introduced a vibrant surface treatment while also protecting the sculptures from the elements, combining material durability with Belanger’s distinctive visual language.