Belfast Artwork 'Respects Equality'

A new iconic artwork representing the history and heritage of part of north Belfast has been installed, writes Carla Liébana.

Located opposite Ballysillan Primary School, the work was born from a joint Arts Council and Belfast City Council initiative, as part of the 'Re-imaging Communities' programme.

This project, which aims to underline the importance of creativity, is helping to transform local communities across Northern Ireland by tackling the visible signs of sectarianism and racism and creating a more welcoming environment for everyone.

"This has been a wonderful community project," said the artist, Dawn Aston.

She worked with pupils from Ballysillan Primary School, the Parents and Teachers Association and Youth for Christ.

"It is a testament to the creativity and artistic talent that lies within this community, and they should be very proud of what they have achieved," Aston said.

The sculpture - an eight-foot tall four-sided pyramid - shows images which are important to the area, including Viking history, the Titanic and local wildlife.

Also, the artwork has a practical element: it incorporates seating for parents who wait for their children coming out of the school.

The finished work was officially unveiled this week by the Lord Mayor of Belfast, Naomi Long, who describes the artwork as "a symbol of communities moving towards a brighter future".

Long said: "This is a prime example of what re-imaging is all about – taking us out of the darkness of the past, whether that be reflected in anti-social behaviour or sectarian division, into a new era of hope and enlightenment, reflecting the heritage of our communities in a positive manner."

The Ballysillan sculpture is the ninth of 11 re-imaging schemes across Belfast (the last two will be finished by the end of the year).

Roisín McDonough, Chief Executive of the Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Chair of the Shared Communities Consortium, commented: "The arts make an important contribution to building a positive future for Northern Ireland by helping to create the conditions for a healthy civic society to flourish.

"This programme is committed to building a shared future for Northern Ireland that is founded on partnership, equality and mutual respect."

(CL/BMcC)