A new arts initiative has been proposed to celebrate the 135th anniversary of the Burns Statue in Burns Statue Square, Ayr.
The bronze statue, which depicts Robert Burns, was originally commissioned by Ayr Burns Club before being gifted to the town council and unveiled to the public on 8 July 1891.
The sculpture sits on an Aberdeen granite plinth and was created by Scottish artist George Anderson Lawson, from Edinburgh, who studied in Rome.
Proposed designs are currently being progressed by Ayrshire Roads Alliance, on behalf of South Ayrshire Council, to redevelop Burns Statue Square, which is home to the landmark sculpture.
The plans feature a welcoming civic space with more greenery and public seating, creating a destination area for people to visit and enjoy.
The project aims to celebrate the Square’s heritage by embracing Robert Burns’ love of nature, with local Ayr primary schools invited to take part.
If approved by South Ayrshire Council, the initiative will launch in the new school term and involve local pupils designing a set of sculptures depicting animals and species mentioned in Burns’ poems. It is anticipated that the artwork will be incorporated within the Square.
Councillor Alec Clark, Depute Leader and Commercial/Operational Services Policy Lead for South Ayrshire Council, whose remit includes tourism, said: “The Burns Statue is one of Ayr's most important landmarks and this project provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate South Ayrshire's unique connection to Robert Burns.
“By combining art, culture and heritage, we're creating something that will enhance the visitor experience, encourage tourism and help even more people discover the stories that link our communities to Scotland's National Bard. It's especially fitting that local young people will play a leading role in shaping a space that honours Burns' legacy for future generations."
Lorimer Headley, President of Ayr Burns Club, added: “It is wonderful to see young people playing such an important role in this special art programme, creating a lasting legacy that celebrates the remarkable life, works and enduring legacy of Scotland’s National Bard, Robert Burns.”
Results of a public engagement on the proposed new designs for Burns Statue Square will be made public later this year. Further information is available at www.burnsstatuesquare.co.uk.