The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Paper cranes take flight in health centre
Aflock of more than 1,000 paper cranes have come home to roost in Aberdeen as part of a mental health-boosting community project.
Hundreds of people have contributed to the art installation at the Frederick Street Health Village, where the colourful origami birds are suspended by wires.
Local artist Janet Liddel spearheaded the project after finding inspiration on a walk during lockdown along the banks of the River Don when the Stoneywood family built a small, impromptu den.
In the weeks which followed, they noticed others had also stumbled upon their creation, decorating it with artwork, flowers and painted rocks.
Mrs Liddel said: “It felt like a little ‘hello’ from our neighbours and made us feel like we weren’t alone, even though some days we might not see or speak to another soul.
“We really valued the den and the unexpected additions that appeared.”
Shortly after the restrictions began to lift the family found the den had been vandalised.
After sharing her story on social media, Mrs Liddel realised her efforts had a much wider impact than she first thought.
She said: “To my surprise the local community got in touch to say how much their own families had enjoyed visiting the den.
“This inspired me to think about the mental
health challenges people may have been facing through the pandemic.”
She turned to Facebook and set up a special page inviting people to join her in the creation of the origami cranes.
The installation will remain in place for around a month, when it is hoped it will embark upon a short tour to nest in other city venues.