A craft enthusiast from Suffolk has found herself at the centre of a local controversy after neighbours criticised her collection of life-size celebrity statues displayed on her garden fence, describing them as 'nightmarish' creations that frighten passing dogs.
From Scarecrow Festival to Fence Feature
Sharon Kulesa, a 46-year-old receptionist from Stowmarket, Suffolk, began her unusual crafting journey after participating in a scarecrow festival. Her initial project was a life-size sculpture of former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, intended to deter birds from her garden. The statue proved so popular locally that it was mysteriously stolen, and its whereabouts remain unknown to this day.
Royalty and Pop Stars Among Creations
Undeterred by the theft, Sharon continued producing her distinctive statues, expanding her repertoire to include figures such as singer Ed Sheeran, the late Queen Elizabeth II, and King Charles III. Her collection has grown to encompass various public figures, including comedian Alan Carr, Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna, and fictional characters like Batman, Disney's Stitch, and Del Boy from Only Fools and Horses.
Neighbourhood Division Over Artistic Display
While many local residents appreciate Sharon's work, some neighbours have voiced strong objections. One neighbour in particular has been vocal in her criticism, repeatedly referring to the statues as 'nightmares.' Other complaints have focused on perceived disrespect toward the individuals being portrayed.
Sharon acknowledges the mixed reactions, stating: 'There's one local lady that hates them. She calls them nightmares. Otherwise, people are quite complimentary. Although they sometimes scare the dogs that go past.'
Artistic Process and Inspiration
Despite holding a degree in illustration and a lifelong passion for art, Sharon only began creating three-dimensional models in 2020. Her creative process involves spending up to four hours crafting character heads before constructing bodies using newspapers, tin foil, and masking tape, a procedure that typically takes three to four days per statue.
Her latest creation, a statue of former Strictly Come Dancing host Claudia Winkleman made to mark the television series, was completed in just one hour. Sharon explains her inspiration comes from current events: 'I like to do things that have relevance to what is going on at the time. For example, the Queen for the Jubilee, the King for his Coronation and Kieran McKenna for when Ipswich went up to the Premier League.'
Community Impact and Television Recognition
Each model costs between £20 and £30 to produce, with additional expenses for clothing sourced from charity shops and second-hand websites. To minimise waste and reduce costs, Sharon recycles materials from previous statues into new creations.
Her work has gained recognition beyond her local area, leading to an appearance on Channel 4's The Last Leg, where she presented alternative versions of the show's hosts. Sharon receives numerous messages from admirers, with some families making special trips to view her garden display.
Balancing Criticism with Community Spirit
Despite facing some resistance from neighbours, Sharon remains philosophical about the criticism. She emphasises that her motivation stems from bringing joy to the community rather than seeking fame or financial gain.
'You're always going to get haters. Some people just get a kick out of being mean,' she reflects. 'I do it to bring joy to the community - not for fame, popularity or money.'
As Sharon contemplates her next subject for the garden fence, she notes that many neighbours are curious about who will appear next, demonstrating the ongoing interest her unique artistic endeavour generates within the Stowmarket community.
