Discover magnificent wood carvings at Minnowburn

Ivan’s precision and skill quickly transformed six large trunks of locally grown oak and sweet chestnut into a true works of art.

The sculptures were created as part of a partnership project, with Arts & Business NI funding being used to bring together a range of local stakeholders which saw National Trust team up with Herbert Smith LLP.

Craig Somerville, National Trust Belfast Area Warden stated: “This has been a fantastic project, we’ve enjoyed working with our partner’s and getting lots of valuable conservation work done, and to top it all, we’ve ended up with these really beautiful carvings. I have no doubt that our visitors will really appreciate coming across these pieces as they stroll around the tranquil paths of Minnowburn.”

Libby Jackson, Director of Herbert Smith LLP’s Belfast Office said: “It was a pleasure for Herbert Smith Belfast to be involved in this project. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to work closely with the amazing team at the National Trust and Arts & Business NI and to have played a part in the creation of inspirational, beautiful and thought-provoking sculptures in such a picturesque local setting.”

The sculptures have been made possible through a grant awarded by Arts & Business NI. They have been placed along the new accessible paths that circle Minnowburn pond and the beautiful Terrace Hill garden which the National Trust have been restoring for a number of years through various volunteer initiatives.

Brona Whittaker from Arts & Business NI said: “Arts & Business Northern Ireland is delighted to have supported the relationship between the National Trust and Herbert Smith through the Investment Programme.”

If you haven’t already experienced the natural wonder of Minnowburn come and enjoy a walk among the woods and meadows on the banks of the Lagan and rest for a while on the exciting new sculptures, some of which also happen to double up as seating.