Steven Chayt’s massive “HOHO Chair” sculpture becomes Winter Haven’s most controversial piece of public art
In what might be the most Florida story of 2026, a Winter Haven artist has sparked neighborhood outrage by constructing a towering 24-foot toilet chair in his backyard – complete with a gaping hole in the seat and a painted clown face underneath.
Steven Chayt, 68, spent years planning and finally executed his vision of the “HOHO Chair,” a massive wooden sculpture that can be seen from blocks away and has become the talk of Old Thornhill Road.
The Throne That Divided a Neighborhood
The controversial artwork stands like a giant’s bathroom furniture, dominating the skyline of what was previously a quiet residential area. The structure features a massive hole cut through the center of the seat, with an open-mouthed clown face painted on vinyl beneath it – creating an unsettling optical illusion for anyone looking up from below.
“In 1992, I had an idea for a chair,” Chayt explained to local media. “It was a sculpture that sort of came to me. I put together a model and waited quite a few years until I got a chance to do something more about it.”
After receiving proper permits from Polk County, Chayt finally brought his decades-old vision to life, creating what he calls an artistic statement inspired by French sculptor Marcel Duchamp.
Neighbors Flush with Anger
Not everyone appreciates Chayt’s artistic vision. Local resident James Barfield III has been particularly vocal about his displeasure with the neighborhood’s new landmark.
“You drive in, the first thing you see is a 24-foot-tall potty chair, it just doesn’t fit,” Barfield told FOX 13. “There’s a community where people live and where their children play, it should be preserved in some right.”
The sculpture has divided the neighborhood, with some residents calling it an eyesore that negatively impacts property values, while others defend Chayt’s right to artistic expression on his own property.
“I would not build a potty chair in my backyard,” Barfield continued. “It just doesn’t fit with the character of our neighborhood.”
The Artist’s Vision
Chayt, who worked for years perfecting his concept, sees the controversy as missing the point of his artistic statement. The sculpture, which he’s dubbed the “HOHO Chair,” represents more than just bathroom humor.
“When I first had the idea for the HOHO Chair, I didn’t question or analyze what it meant,” Chayt wrote in an artist’s statement. “Without knowing the meaning, I knew I had to build it.”
The chair was originally conceived as two miniature models in 1992 – one for himself and one for a friend. Chayt says the concept was influenced by Marcel Duchamp’s famous “Fountain” sculpture, which challenged conventional definitions of art by presenting a urinal as fine art.
Legal and Legitimate
Despite neighbor complaints, Chayt’s toilet throne is completely above board. Polk County officials confirmed that all proper permits were obtained for the structure, and it meets local building codes.
“We applied for a permit, we were issued the permit,” Chayt explained. “We were all very excited.”
The fact that the sculpture is legally constructed has frustrated opponents, who have few options for removal beyond continued complaints and potential homeowners association action.
A Growing Tourist Attraction
While neighbors complain, the HOHO Chair has begun attracting curious visitors from around Central Florida. The sculpture has appeared on social media countless times, with people making special trips to Winter Haven just to see the massive toilet chair.
Local businesses report increased foot traffic from “toilet tourists” who come to see the chair and end up shopping or dining in the area. Some enterprising locals have begun offering “HOHO Chair tours” for visitors wanting to learn more about the controversial art piece.
The Clown Factor
Perhaps the most unsettling aspect of Chayt’s creation is the painted clown face beneath the toilet seat opening. The open-mouthed design creates an optical illusion that has disturbed some viewers and delighted others.
“The clown represents the phrase ‘place your trust here,'” Chayt explained. “It means whatever you think it means.”
The clown element has spawned countless memes and social media posts, with people creating their own interpretations of what the face represents.
Property Value Concerns
Real estate agents in the area report mixed reactions from potential buyers. Some are put off by the giant toilet dominating the neighborhood landscape, while others see it as a unique selling point that makes the area memorable.
“It’s definitely a conversation starter,” admits local realtor Maria Rodriguez. “Some clients love the quirky character it gives the neighborhood, while others immediately ask if there’s any way to get it removed.”
Property appraiser records show no significant negative impact on surrounding home values, though the sculpture has only been completed recently.
Art vs. Community Standards
The HOHO Chair controversy highlights ongoing tensions between artistic freedom and community standards in residential neighborhoods. Legal experts note that as long as proper permits are obtained and safety codes are met, property owners generally have broad rights to construct art on their land.
“This is a classic case of artistic expression versus community aesthetic preferences,” explains property law attorney David Chen. “Since he followed all legal requirements, neighbors have limited recourse beyond social pressure.”
Some cities have specific ordinances about large outdoor sculptures in residential zones, but Winter Haven’s regulations focus primarily on safety and structural integrity rather than aesthetic considerations.
Chayt Remains Defiant
Despite the neighborhood backlash, Chayt shows no signs of backing down from his artistic vision. He continues working on finishing touches and has hinted at additional artistic projects for his property.
“Art is supposed to provoke discussion and make people think,” Chayt said. “If people are talking about it, then it’s serving its purpose.”
The artist encourages would-be critics to wait until the sculpture is completely finished before passing final judgment, though he acknowledges the likelihood of continued controversy.
Social Media Sensation
The HOHO Chair has become an unexpected internet celebrity, spawning countless memes, TikTok videos, and Instagram posts. Hashtags like #HOHOChair and #FloridaToiletArt have gained traction across social media platforms.
Many online commenters have praised Chayt’s commitment to his artistic vision, while others share the neighbors’ concerns about appropriateness. The sculpture has been featured in “Only in Florida” social media accounts and weird news compilations worldwide.
Future Implications
The success of Chayt’s permit approval may inspire other unconventional artists to pursue similarly ambitious projects in residential areas. Local officials report increased inquiries about large sculpture permits since the HOHO Chair gained media attention.
“We’re getting more calls from people wanting to build interesting things in their yards,” admits one county permit official who asked to remain anonymous. “Some are artistic, some are just weird.”
The Bottom Line
Whether viewed as inspired art or neighborhood nuisance, Steven Chayt’s 24-foot toilet chair has undeniably achieved his goal of creating discussion. The sculpture stands as a testament to one man’s dedication to his artistic vision and Florida’s reputation for embracing the unconventional.
As Chayt continues adding finishing touches to his masterpiece, neighbors and tourists alike will continue debating whether the HOHO Chair represents artistic genius or elaborate bathroom humor taken too far.
One thing is certain: Winter Haven’s skyline will never look quite the same.
The sculpture can be viewed from Old Thornhill Road near the corner of Fox Hunt Drive, where it has become an unofficial landmark for anyone brave enough to take a seat and contemplate its deeper meaning.
Steven Chayt’s HOHO Chair stands 24 feet tall on his private property at 3317 Old Thornhill Road in Winter Haven, Florida. All construction was completed with proper Polk County permits and meets local safety requirements.