WAN OF A KIND
An artistic tribute to arguably Crieff’s most famous son has been erected at one of the town’s most historic locations.
A mural paying tribute to Hollywood star Ewan McGregor’s portrayal of Obi-Wan Kenobi in the Star Wars films has been installed within the grounds of Old St Michael’s churchyard.
The artwork was created by Ian Cuthbert Imrie, who lives in Bridge of Earn, after he was approached by Strath capital resident Craig Finlay with a view to creating a piece for the town.
Ian settled on a Star Wars theme given Crieff’s links to the iconic franchise, with both former Morrison’s Academy pupil Ewan and his uncle, renowned actor Denis Lawson, both closely associated with the films.
The piece – which also features depictions of well-known characters R2-D2, C-3PO, Yoda and Darth Vader – was completed earlier in the year.
And Craig, a member of volunteerleded community group Friends of Old St MichaMichael’s, said he felt it was appropriate the painting had gone up in time to mark Ewan’s 50th birthday on March 31.
Acknowledging the piece has been something of a talking point in recent weeks, Craig said:“Crieff is Scotland’s Star Wars town and this is something we’re very proud of.
“Obi-Wan will once again be big news next year, and Ewan celebrates his 50th this month, so we thought we should recognise this, as well as having Old St Michael’s taking part in The Great Big Art Exhibition.
“When the painting appeared on Facebook, a sort of meltdown happened. Not since Salvador Dali’s Christ of St John of The Cross was unveiled has a painting provoked such controversy.
“Comments have ranged widely, but children, particularly, love the painting.
“Hopefully other temporary art pieces can be displayed on the same wall in the future.
“As a well-known Crieff artist said to me recently: ‘Public art is a force for good – and may the force be with us’.”
Ewan’s mum, Carol McGregor, told the Herald:“I’m delighted it has given Crieff something to talk aboutut during what has been a difficult time.
“It’s great that it’s encouraging people to come and have a look at what has been done at Old St Michael’s.
“I’d like to thank Craig, Peter Littwin and the rest of the Friends of Old St Michael’s for everything they’re doing, and Ian for his work.
“Crieff has a strong connection to Star Wars and it’s lovely to see it recognised in this way.”
Ewan first appeared as Jedi Master Obi-Wan Kenobi in 1999’s The Phantom Menace and is currently filming a series based on the character for Disney+.
Denis’s first foray as Rebel starfighter Wedge Antilles was back in 1977 and he went on to star in all three films which comprise George Lucas’s original trilogy.
He reprised the role in The Rise of Skywalker, which was released in 2019.