King Orry comes to life in artists' studio

Statue of Godred Crovan to be installed near Tynwald Hill

The sculptors working on a new statue of King Orry say they've been carrying out extensive research ahead of its installation.

The larger-than-life depiction of the Viking warlord is set to be erected in St John's adjacent to Tynwald Hill.

Dismissing an appeal against the proposals, the chief officer of the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture says it stands to enhance public appreciation of the Island's Norse heritage.

Read more HERE.

Whilst there is no confirmed likeness of Godred Crovan, Historian Charles Guard has described the design of the statue as an 'artistic interpretation' informed by historical advice.

The artists responsible for its design are Darren Jackson and Stephanie Quayle-Jackson who created the heron sculpture in Castletown, among others.

Stephanie says: "We wanted to create Godred Crovan first and foremost. So we studied lots of books, there's lots of writings.

"The Manx Museum have been fantastic with their help, and Vikings of Mann lent us all their re-enactment kits so that we could actually put it on and feel what it feels like to wear this kit."

They've been speaking to Manx Radio's John Moss:

Where the King Orry statue is due to be installed. [Image: Planning Service] 

Godred Crovan comes to life in the studio. [Image: Supplied by Stephanie Quayle-Jackson]

The plans for the sculpture have been submitted under the name of Laurence Skelly, President of Tynwald.

The project will be privately funded with no access to taxpayer money.