The ‘worker bee’ has been Manchester’s mascot since the 19th century and a new public art event is set to celebrate this iconic image, and the city as a whole. From July, 80 giant bee sculptures will appear all over the place. You’ll see them at architectural landmarks, cultural gems, retail venues, parks, and public spaces. Each will have a unique design created by a different artist, some of them professionals and some emerging talents. There will be a trail map and an app to help you and the family find them all. One of the aims of this art trail is to help people discover places they may not have explored before. Of course, the bee symbol has taken on additional meanings since last year’s terrorist attack at the Manchester Arena; the idea of keeping on keeping on for the greater good being both a trait of Mancunians in general, and a fitting description of the city’s response to the attacks. Following the exhibition, the sculptures will be auctioned off to raise money for the Lord Mayor’s charity fund We Love MCR.

Jul – Sep, Throughout the city centre, FREE, www.beeinthecitymcr.co.uk

Sun 1 Jul - Sun 30 Sep
Words:
A. James Simpkin
Published on:
Mon 24 Sep 2018