London School of Economics in a world of trouble over globe artwork

Mark Wallinger’s The World Turned Upside Down is on display outside the London School of Economics. It shows China and Taiwan in different colours
Mark Wallinger’s The World Turned Upside Down is on display outside the London School of Economics. It shows China and Taiwan in different colours

A diplomatic row between China and Taiwan has erupted over the unveiling of a globe sculpture at the London School of Economics.

The island of Taiwan was painted pink while China was yellow on the striking 14ft The World Turned Upside Down installation by the Turner prize-winning artist Mark Wallinger.

Scores of Chinese students at the London university complained that the “unacceptable” colouring portrays Taiwan as an independent nation, and demanded a change to the artwork.

Responding to the backlash, the LSE appeared to concede to their concerns, admitting: “The artwork currently does not reflect our understanding of United Nations delineations that it was due to represent . . . We are currently consulting our community and considering amendments to the work. No final decisions