After the News few days ago that the Michael Jackson statue will be returning to its place on upper Santa Marta after repairing damages, here it is! Like Brand New and more solid to defy the time, the weather and the fans!
Due to the high level of people hanging to Michael’s arms (who wouldn’t) the base was braking between the flat base and Michael’s shoes. The Statue had to be removed completely for health and safety reasons and the base has been replaced and the feet re-attached and restored.
Despite some fans hating the statue and calling it ‘ugly’, This statue is a clear representation of the Santa Marta people’s love and thanks to Michael Jackson. In our Iconic Magazine Issue 17, we explained how Michael Jackson has completely changed this dangerous neighbourhood to a fantastic tourist attraction and changed the lives of thousands just by being there and filming ‘They Don’t Care About Us’! Obviously there is more to the story but for now, glad to see Michael Jackson’s statue back where it belongs! Big thanks to Ique and Luiz Fernando Pezao, Governor of Rio de Janeiro who helped to collect the funds for the restoration.
Ique & his piece of art
Replacing the statue wasn’t easy as the base needed to be stronger.
SOURCE & PHOTOS: Ique Woitschach
