A beloved Lacombe sculpture has been removed after nearly a decade in the community.
According to the city, the wizard sculpture in Popow Park had become unstable and removed for public safety.
Darren Jones, the artist who created the public piece in 2017, remembers discussing a magical theme and knew what to do.
“I love doing wizards,” Jones said with a laugh.
A big Lord of the Rings fan, he said that Gandalf was his inspiration.
“I could just see the story coming out and (with) some of those branches, I used those for the butterflies coming out and the little bird.”
Parts of the sculpture, including the sceptre, butterflies and birds, will be preserved and displayed at the Lacombe Memorial Centre (LMC) after being touched up — something Jones said he appreciates.
“There's a lot of home-grown talents in the area and I think that you guys showcase it,” he said, referring to the many public art pieces and murals around the city.
Jones hopes to visit Lacombe soon and see his artwork in the LMC.
Those interested in his work can visit his Facebook page.
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