Artwork tribute to Ewan’s star role
Mural pays homage to Crieff-born actor in iconic films
His acting exploits have helped put Crieff on the map.
And now plans are being formed to erect a lasting artistic tribute to Hollywood star Ewan McGregor in his home town.
Perthshire creative talent Ian Cuthbert Imrie was approached by Strath capital resident Craig Finlay recently with a view to creating a piece for the town and it was decided to pay homage to former Morrison’s Academy pupil Ewan’s portrayal of Obi-Wan Kenobi in the Star Wars films.
The artwork, which has been created on four portable 8x4-metre panels, has been completed and is currently housed at Ian’s Bridge of Earn home.
In addition to Ewan as the Jedi master, it also features other iconic characters from the franchise such as R2-D2, C-3PO, Yoda and Darth Vader.
Ian, who admitted to only having seen one of the films in the series created by legendary director George Lucas previously, said he felt it was important people in towns such as Crieff did what they could to promote themselves to as wide an audience as possible.
He told the Herald: “I was approached by Craig because he had seen some of the pieces I’ve done in Perth.
“After we chatted it was decided to do a portrait featuring Ewan. I’ve only seen one Star Wars film but, in terms of the town, why wouldn’t you want to make the most of the links you have to something so popular around the world?
“I know Ewan is aware of it and his family are. Hopefully it can go on display in the town soon and as many people will get the chance to enjoy it as possible.
“I’m not sure where it’s going to go at the moment but it’s relatively easy to move around so it should go up pretty quickly once somewhere suitable is found.
“It has been a hard time for lot of people recently so hopefully this will give Crieff a boost.”
Discussions in terms of finding a suitable location for the piece to be erected, involving several local groups, are said to be ongoing.
Craig said: “I’ve been following the artwork Ian displays in Perth, and suggested to him that he could create a Star Wars-themed painting for Crieff, given the connections to the movie franchise the town has.
“Ewan, as well as his uncle, Denis Lawson, have both starred in the films and are both from here.
“The painting will be displayed in the town when we find a location, and further paintings will hopefully be on show too.”