View across the city centre from Everton Brow _320
A HERD of Superlambananas could be stationed at Everton Brow, overlooking Liverpool in an attempt to create a new tourist attraction.
The Go Superlambananas project has captivated the imagination of young and old alike in Liverpool and attracted thousands to the city, and culture supremo Phil Redmond wants to bring them back next year.
The 121 customised statues dotted across Liverpool and beyond are due to be auctioned off on September 9 to raise cash for the lord mayor’s charity.
Before auction they will be gathered outside St George’s Hall, where people will be able to see them together.
Those designed by community groups will be returned, while those sponsored by businesses will be sold.
Phil Redmond said: “It’s been one of the surprise hits of the year, and I want to try to find ways to see if we can do it again next year.
“They are recognised as symbols of Liverpool. It would be great if we could bring them back and people could have fun guessing what they will look like each year.”
He said he would want to see if it were possible to have a permanent display.
“They would have to be made of something more robust. It would be great to have a herd grazing at Everton Brow and make it into a photo destination.”
He said the size of the figures, smaller than the original 17ft sculpture that sits in Tithebarn Street, had proved popular.
The future of the original was cast into doubt earlier this year when the representative of the artist Taro Chiezo said the sculpture could be sold.
Last night, Mr Redmond would only say that the negotiations were “protracted” over the future of the original.
“So many people have contributed to the project, I think it should be an annual event.
“If it cannot be Superlambananas, then maybe Liver Birds.”
The Go Superlambananas project was run by Wild In Art, whose group director, Sally Ann Wilkinson, said she would welcome the idea of the “lambies” returning to the city.
She added: “It would be great to repeat it. I’m thrilled that the project has been received with such affection from so many visitors and residents.”
