Paying tribute to beautiful illustrations

Client Requirement – GHMILY Literature Trail

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council has taken the initiative to pay tribute to the illustrious children’s book “Guess How Much I Love You.” Authored by a local resident of Lisburn, Sam McBratney, through a public arts and literature trail. The commissioned artwork for this project has been designed to complement the unique style of illustrator Anita Jeram. The council has offered funding for a sculpture trail, worksheets, and a digital app to make this project successful.

In addition to this, the council has also allocated extra funds to revamp the Haslem Lane area. This is located in the heart of the city centre. Unfortunately, this particular area was tired with graffiti on its walls. However, the council is determined to turn it around and make it a beautiful part of the city again.

Our Approach

Three elaborate chainsaw-carved wooden benches and a bronze sculpture were crafted as part of the ‘Public Art and Literature Trail’ in Lisburn City Centre.

To make the experience more engaging, we have created two trails – the ‘Little Nutbrown Hare Trail’ and the ‘Big Nutbrown Hare Trail’. Each trail has eight zinc rubbing plaques that users can complete in the worksheets provided. These worksheets feature a cross-fold setup with a specially designed city map. A bronze sculpture created by a talented local sculptor, Trudy Burke, has been placed in the charming Castle Gardens in Lisburn City Centre.

Client: Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council
Date: 2022-2023
Location: Lisburn – N.Ireland
Services: Trail consultancy, design, implementation + mobile app

Artistic & digital enhancements

Firstly, to help guide users around each point of interest, we have developed an app. This app includes quiz questions and an audio recording of Sam McBratney reading the book. Ultimately, adding a delightful and commemorative touch to the experience.

Five arches stand on Haslems Lane, and adorning them with five murals depicting iconic scenes from a beloved book would be fitting. Local artist Dean Kane expertly stencilled the artwork and added his creative touch. As a result, there are now stunning arches that have become a topic of discussion in the city centre.