In 2022, Darwen-based artist Marjan Wouda had a temporary three-part installation in Whitaker Park entitled ‘Familiar’.
It was based on three local folktales, the largest sculpture being a 3.6-metre Corten steel hare which the locals nicknamed ‘Mr Hare’.
Marjan said: “To have a sculpture in the right place can really transform it, and I think Rawtenstall town centre is so lovely with the hills, and it connects the sculpture to that habitat as well.
“I think maybe we are waking up to the importance of our moorland, especially with climate change.Sir Hare outside The Whitaker (Image: Brandon Marples)
“People are fascinated by hares. They seem to occupy a special place in people’s imagination, so I think that helps to get people talking, as they are very much endangered, their numbers are going down.”
The campaign was suggested by Andy MacNae, MP for Rossendale and Darwen, and linked Mid Pennine Arts (MPA) with Marjan and other local enthusiasts to bring back the sculpture.
Creative director of MPA, Nick Hunt, said: “Andy recognises the importance of art out in the landscapes to provide a new kind of destination and focal point.
“Local people had the previous experience of having it for six months at the Whitaker, so they had it up close and were sorry to see it go.”
Lancashire County Council’s Culture and Sports Fund has already pledged more than £9,500 to the campaign, and almost £4,000 has come from local backers.
Those who have contributed more than £1,000 will be honoured with a plaque next to the installation.
Nick added: “I think Marjan is a really exceptional artist, I really admire her work, and we want to support her.
“It’s always a challenge raising funds, especially in the current climate, so we definitely don’t take that for granted.”
Bob Frith, a local artist and founder of the Horse and Bamboo Theatre, said: “For me, the hare represents nature, mystery and folklore.
“Marjan’s powerful and much-loved sculpture will bring these things right into the heart of Rossendale.”
The dog in Marjan’s ‘Familiar’ collection has been installed in Clitheroe, and she revealed that she will be looking to install the cow on Parlick Hill to follow the folktale.