Lionheart Project

The Lionheart project is the East Midlands contribution to Artists taking the lead, one of the major projects of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad, being developed by Arts Council England in partnership with London 2012 and the arts councils of Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.

An introduction to the Lionheart project

The Lionheart Project will feature three giant hand crocheted lions in a custom-built, mobile, glass case. These powerful, realistic sculptures reflect the region in both symbol and materials; they will recreate Richard the Lionheart's three lions crest using locally sourced Swaledale wool, celebrating the region’s rich textile heritage.

The lion structures are sculpted out of polystyrene and set around steel skeletons. Using a ‘one colour one stitch’ freestyle technique, artist Shauna Richardson will then crochet the three skins tracing muscular contours as she goes - it is estimated that this process will take her around two years. During this time, people can witness the creation of the lions via Lionheart Project cameras, and get involved through studio visits and participatory activities across the region.

Shauna in action making the first of the three lions.

In the spring of 2012, the Lionheart project will travel around the East Midlands in a custom-built glass exhibition vehicle.

Follow Shauna's progress at www.lionheartproject.com and view the photos in our gallery.