GoGoSafari sculpture artist transforms Samson and Hercules

Inspired by the pop art movement, the piece draws on street art, surf culture and the electric style of 1980s New York street artist Keith Haring.

Rhinodelic is most certainly a visual explosion that celebrates bold shapes and colour. 

Vibrant new look for Samson and Hercules statues in Norwich (Image: Break) Mr Reeve said: “The Samson and Hercules statues are such iconic sculptures in Norwich, so it was a real honour when Mortgage Advice Bureau asked me to give them a colourful makeover.  

“It’s a fun way to help draw attention to the rhino here, and the GoGoSafari trail, and my art exhibition happening inside.  

“And for those who prefer the originals – don’t worry, the statues will return to their classic look once the trail ends.”

Vibrant new look for Samson and Hercules statues in Norwich (Image: Matt Reeve) Commissioned by the Mayor of Norwich over 360 years ago, the statues have had quite a life.  

Hercules was replaced in 1890, and in 1993 Samson’s arm fell off leading to both figures being swapped for fibreglass replicas.  

Since then, they’ve sparked controversy with bold makeovers – painted in bright colours for a 2012 art exhibition and coated in vivid red when the building reopened as a lobster restaurant in 2014. 

Vibrant new look for Samson and Hercules statues in Norwich (Image: Break) Oliver Dack, business principal at Rhinodelic’s sponsor Mortgage Advice Bureau, said: “As soon as we saw Matt’s vibrant design, we knew we wanted to spread that colourful energy beyond the rhino and onto the iconic Samson and Hercules statues outside the offices – it just felt like a perfect fit.  

“The reaction so far has been brilliant, with people stopping to admire their bold new look.” 

Matt Reeve is exhibiting his new work titled Chromatic Tapestries till August 30 at the Mortgage Advice Bureau, open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm.