This would appear to be a simple idea which recreates itself in one form or another at the whim of the city's administrators; each city and the image which best characterizes it. There are those who feel that this display, eclectic, and fairly banal, is above all aimed at tourists and is nothing more than an amusement, a purely festive event.
There are also those who see beyond the simple and innocent images of the tens of statues scattered throughout the city. They see them as an occasion offering an unusual opportunity to created an unmediated dialogue with city residents as well as its visitors. The Lions, guests of the city for a brief period only, sporting the various forms and countenances, present the rich significance of a multi-faceted reality.
Located on the streets, rather than in the warm haven of a gallery, or a Lion's natural territory, the statues bring the spirit of the times of the city; they address the symbols and myths of the city, orientalism, attachment to place, belonging and an atmosphere of magic and secrecy.
The Parade of Lions involves young artists who have recently completed their studies, alongside senior artists of longstanding reputation. Artists from the visual arts and sculpture, participated with those in the fields of jewelry-making, graphic design and industrial design. This is a broad and diverse collection of voices which represents a fascinating picture of what is currently happening in the art world. Thus, anyone paying close attention and casting a critical glance at the Lions, will discover that in the streets of this city, in the shadow of conflict and traumatic events, a multi-participant discourse - lions, spectators, critics, tourists - is taking place in the field of local art and culture.
Many have stated their desire to take an active part in this event and express their support. People have documented the statues in photographs and have come to show us their albums. There were those who produced videos, some of which were aired on television, and others even took the trouble to created street installations. Children playing with the statues, the smiles of the passers-by and the curiosity of others, feelings of involvement and interest - these are all at the heart of the project.
Dapha Naor
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