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Burt artist ‘mane’ man for Aslan
the lion job
03.07.15
BURT-based artist
Maurice Harron has been commissioned to create a
majestic three-metre high sculpture of Aslan the
lion in Belfast - birthplace of ‘Chronicles of
Narnia’ author C.S. Lewis.
Derry-born Harron has been commissioned by Belfast
City Council to create six installations inspired by
Lewis' classic novel 'The Lion, The Witch and The
Warddrobe' for a new civic square currently being
developed in the east of the city.
When it's finished, visitors to the site will be
greeted by Narnia characters including the White
Witch, Mr Tumnus and Mr and Mrs Beaver. |
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Maurice Harron pictured at the site
of the new Narnia-inspired civic space. |
But the highlight will
be the large sculpture of children's favourite,
Aslan.
“I’m delighted to step ‘through the wardrobe’ and
take on the challenge of recreating the magic of
Narnia, right on C.S. Lewis’ own doorstep,” said Mr
Harron.
The Derry-born sculptor is known for acclaimed works
including the ‘Hands Across the Divide’
reconciliation sculpture in his native city.
“These artworks will be central to the civic square
and provide a fitting tribute to one of Belfast’s
most famous sons," added Mr Harron.
“I want to recreate the emotions within Lewis’
world, so that - like Lucy, Edmund, Peter and Susan
- you never quite know what’s around the corner.” |
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Some of Maurice Harron's proposed
artworks, from top left, Mr Tumnus, Aslan the lion,
Mr and Mrs Beaver, Jewel the Unicorn and the White
Witch. |
Lewis was born in east
Belfast’s Dundela Avenue and grew up in nearby
Strandtown.
The new civic space, currently under construction at
Holywood Arches as part of the Connswater Community
Greenway, is expected to be completed next year. |
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