'Scary' Lucille Ball sculptor apologizes, says he will replace it for free

CELORON, N.Y., April 6 (UPI) -- The artist behind a controversial sculpture of comedy legend Lucille Ball has apologized and offered to replace it for free.

"I take full responsibility for 'Scary Lucy,' though by no means was that my intent nor did I wish to disparage in any way the memories of the iconic Lucy image," artist Dave Poulin wrote in a letter to The Hollywood Reporter.

Poulin's rendering of the I Love Lucy star was erected in Celeron, N.Y., next to Ball's hometown of Jamestown, N.Y., in 2009.

But some fans felt that the sculpture was an unflattering likeness and started a Facebook group calling on Celoron Mayor Scott Schrecengost to replace it.

Poulin said he was also unhappy with his work.

"I have shared my disappointment in the final outcome and have always believed it to be by far my most unsettling sculpture, not befitting of Lucy's beauty or my ability as a sculptor," he said. "Yes, in retrospect, it should have never been cast in bronze and made public, and I take complete ownership of that poor decision."

"I have felt blessed to have inspired and touched the lives of thousands of people who do enjoy my other works, and am heartsick at the feelings that have been evoked as a result of the Celeron Lucy," he added.

Poulin said he would replace "Scary Lucy" with a "beautiful and charming" version free of charge.