The Brookfield Zoo Lion Statue is a beloved and iconic landmark that has been captivating visitors to the Brookfield Zoo in Chicago for over three decades. This remarkable sculpture, created by the talented artist Timothy Barnes, offers a unique and gentle portrayal of lion behavior, setting it apart from the traditional ferocious depictions.
Artist and History
The Brookfield Zoo Lion Statue was created by Timothy Barnes, a graduate of the Art Institute of Chicago. The statues were formally unveiled on September 26, 1986, and have since become a prominent feature of the zoo. Barnes’ vision was to depict a lion family in a gentle, interactive manner, rather than the typical fierce pose.
Description
The Brookfield Zoo Lion Statue features a lion family, with the father resting his head on the mother’s back, while the young cub playfully interacts with the father’s tail. The mother lion is shown snarling at the cub, as if scolding it to stop bothering the father. This unique and captivating portrayal of lion behavior sets the Brookfield Zoo Lion Statue apart from other lion statues.
Restoration
Over the years, the Brookfield Zoo Lion Statue has faced its fair share of challenges. The statues developed cracks, and pieces went missing. In 2013, the zoo undertook a restoration project to repair the statues. The lion cub, which had been removed from the base, was reattached, and the statues were restored to their original condition, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
Inspiration
The Brookfield Zoo Lion Statue is inspired by Jacques Louis Barye’s “Lion au Serpent,” but with significant differences. While Barye’s work depicts a lion in a fierce, aggressive pose, the Brookfield Zoo Lion Statue offers a more gentle and interactive representation of the lion family.
Significance
The Brookfield Zoo Lion Statue is an important part of the Brookfield Zoo’s heritage and is now reflected in the zoo’s new logo mark. The logo features two lions facing each other, symbolizing the zoo’s rich past and forward-looking vision.
Current Status
The Brookfield Zoo Lion Statue continues to be a popular attraction at the Brookfield Zoo. The restoration project has ensured the statues’ preservation, allowing visitors to enjoy this captivating landmark for years to come.
Unique Features
The Brookfield Zoo Lion Statue stands out for its unique and gentle portrayal of lion behavior. Unlike traditional lion statues that depict the animals in a fierce, aggressive pose, this sculpture showcases a more intimate and interactive family dynamic. The father lion resting his head on the mother’s back, while the cub playfully interacts with the father’s tail, creates a sense of warmth and affection that is rarely seen in lion statues.
Visitor Experience
Visitors to the Brookfield Zoo often find themselves drawn to the Brookfield Zoo Lion Statue, captivated by its intricate details and the story it tells. The statue’s interactive nature encourages visitors to engage with the sculpture, imagining the lion family’s interactions and the emotions they convey.
Educational Value
The Brookfield Zoo Lion Statue not only serves as a visually stunning landmark but also offers an educational opportunity for visitors. The statue’s unique portrayal of lion behavior can be used to educate visitors about the social dynamics and family structures of these majestic animals, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Artistic Significance
The Brookfield Zoo Lion Statue is a testament to the artistic talent of Timothy Barnes, the sculptor who created this remarkable work. By reimagining the traditional lion statue, Barnes has contributed to the evolution of public art, showcasing the versatility and creativity that can be applied to such iconic subjects.
Conclusion
The Brookfield Zoo Lion Statue is a captivating and beloved landmark that has become an integral part of the Brookfield Zoo’s identity. Its unique and gentle portrayal of lion behavior, the restoration efforts that have preserved its beauty, and the educational and artistic significance it holds make the Brookfield Zoo Lion Statue a must-see attraction for any zoo enthusiast or art lover visiting the Chicago area.
References:
1. https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/brookfieldzoochicagoemblems
2. https://www.rblandmark.com/2013/10/22/zoo-stop-shelters-lions-get-makeover/
3. https://www.reddit.com/r/ArtHistory/comments/8t3g04/does_anyone_know_the_artist_of_the_lion_statues/
4. https://www.brookfieldzoo.org/Chicago-Zoological-Society%E2%80%99s-Brookfield-Zoo-Unveils-New-Brand-Brookfield-Zoo-Chicago