Desperate Dan Statue
Sightseeing attraction | Dundee | Scotland | United Kingdom
Tourist attractions in Dundee
The "Desperate Dan Statue" in Dundee, Scotland, is one of the city's most well-known and beloved landmarks, and a symbolic landmark celebrating the rich comic tradition of the region. This imposing bronze sculpture stands in the heart of the city center, on High Street, and depicts Desperate Dan, the legendary hero of the British comic "The Dandy" published by the Dundee-based publishing company D.C. Thomson & Co. The statue was unveiled in 2001 by local artists Tony and Susie Morrow, and shows the huge, bearded cowboy accompanied by his faithful dog Dawg, striding forward with large steps. It is not just a piece of art, but also a tribute to Dundee's cultural significance as the birthplace of some of Britain's most well-known comic characters.
Family-friendly sights in Dundee
Desperate Dan, who first appeared on December 4, 1937 in the very first issue of "The Dandy", is an iconic figure in British popular culture. Originally created by Dudley D. Watkins, he was portrayed as a rough outlaw with superhuman strength, capable of lifting a cow with one hand and shaving his tough beard with a blowtorch. Over time, Dan evolved into a lovable hero with a golden heart, who often helped the weak, even if his immense strength sometimes inadvertently caused chaos. His favorite dish, the famous "cow pies" – huge meat pies with protruding horns – became a trademark of the character. The statue perfectly captures this rugged and dynamic character: standing at about 2.5 meters tall, it shows Dan in full size, with Dawg trotting by his side, seemingly a bit overwhelmed by Dan's pace.
Public artworks in Scotland
The "Desperate Dan Statue" is more than just a sculpture – it represents Dundee's proud connection to the comic industry. D.C. Thomson, a publishing company based in the city, not only produced "The Dandy", but also "The Beano", another legendary comic magazine that gave rise to characters like Minnie the Minx, whose statue also stands nearby. The unveiling in 2001 was a community event, with children from Dundee leading the ceremony, highlighting the character's significance for generations of readers. The statue faces the bustling City Square and is near the Caird Hall, making it an inevitable sight for visitors strolling through the pedestrian zone. Its central location makes it an ideal spot for photos and a popular meeting point for locals and tourists alike.
Experiencing comic culture in Dundee
The sculpture itself is a masterpiece of attention to detail. Tony and Susie Morrow have depicted Dan with his characteristic checkered shirt, wide trousers, and prominent beer belly, while his face bears an expression of determined energy. Dawg, smaller and with a slightly grumpy look, adds a humorous touch that reflects the spirit of the comics. The bronze material provides a sturdy, timeless quality that perfectly suits Dan's rough personality, and the patina of years has added an additional depth to the statue. Nearby stands the statue of Minnie the Minx, armed with her slingshot – a nod to the idea that she could disrupt Dan's walk, emphasizing the playful nature of these public artworks.
Bronze sculptures in Scottish cities
The location of the statue is deliberately chosen to celebrate Dundee's contribution to British entertainment culture. The city is known for its "three Js" – Jute, Jam, and Journalism – but comic production has proved equally influential to its identity. The "Desperate Dan Statue" is part of a larger public art program in Dundee that has enriched the city with humorous and accessible sculptures, including the nearby "Lemmings Statues" at the university. It represents a time when comics like "The Dandy" and "The Beano" inspired the imagination of children and adults alike, and it recalls the creative talents that Dundee has produced. Even though "The Dandy" ceased its print form in 2012 and transitioned to a digital format, Dan's legacy lives on through this statue.
For visitors, the "Desperate Dan Statue" is a place of nostalgia and joy. It particularly attracts those who grew up with the comics, offering an opportunity to relive childhood memories. At the same time, it is a surprising discovery for newcomers, inviting smiles and curiosity about the character's history. The statue is easily accessible and located near other attractions such as the McManus Galleries, Discovery Point, and V&A Dundee, making it a natural stop on a city tour. Often, children can be seen playing around the statue, or tourists taking selfies with Dan and Dawg – a sign that it is a vibrant part of the cityscape.
