History of Botanic Gardens brought to life in huge artwork

Grammy Award winner Van Morrison's name has now gone to the wall in a new public artwork which aims to bring Belfast's Botanic Gardens history to life.
By The Newsroom
Published 17th Aug 2016, 17:40 BST
Updated 25th Aug 2016, 16:21 BST
Artist Peter Strain and poet Emma Must at the completed wallArtist Peter Strain and poet Emma Must at the completed wall
Artist Peter Strain and poet Emma Must at the completed wall

The 27-metre long (29-yard) artwork illustrates some of the most memorable moments of the gardens, from its opening in 1828.

Award-winning illustrator Peter Strain was commissioned by Belfast City Council to create the piece to surround the Tropical Ravine while its £3.8 million restoration is completed.

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The artwork stretches across the great lawn, almost to the Ulster Museum.

Artist Peter Strain and poet Emma Must admire the results of their collaboration. The 27 metre long artwork illustrates some of Botanic Gardens most memorable moments and was commissioned by Belfast City Council to surround the Tropical Ravine while its £3.8 million restoration is completed.Artist Peter Strain and poet Emma Must admire the results of their collaboration. The 27 metre long artwork illustrates some of Botanic Gardens most memorable moments and was commissioned by Belfast City Council to surround the Tropical Ravine while its £3.8 million restoration is completed.
Artist Peter Strain and poet Emma Must admire the results of their collaboration. The 27 metre long artwork illustrates some of Botanic Gardens most memorable moments and was commissioned by Belfast City Council to surround the Tropical Ravine while its £3.8 million restoration is completed.

Councillor Sian O’Neill, deputy chairperson of Belfast City Council’s people and communities committee, said: “This is a really fascinating piece of art which captures some of Botanic Gardens’ most iconic events and fantastic sights, including a hot air balloon ascent, the ‘King of Niagara’ Charles Blondin carrying a man across a tightrope on his back, and U2’s performance in 1997.”

She added: “When the Tropical Ravine reopens next year, it will be another must-see attraction for Belfast.

“It’s wonderful that so many of the park’s visitors’ memories have been captured in this artwork – which demonstrates what a magical place Botanic Gardens is.”

Related topics:BelfastBelfast City Council