I spy with my eye...a lion? Not just any lion -- a Jerusalem Lion.

Since last March Jerusalem has been celebrating its lions -- an exciting citywide art project that has taken the country's capital by the "mane." The colorful lions have brought Jerusalem into the collection of outdoor urban exhibitions that have been taking place throughout the world. From cows in New York to pigs in Seattle, from moose in Toronto to dolphins in Tel Aviv, animal sculptures have turned city streets into a garden of galleries and with quite a few humorous surprises!

The original concept of public "animal art" began with cows grazing through Zurich in 1988. What could be more natural than to take the symbol of Jerusalem, the "Lion of Judah," and turn him into the central star of an art exhibition? Artist Aliza Olmert (wife of Jerusalem Mayor Ehud Olmert) initiated the project in Jerusalem with the generous support of Peugeot Israel.

The lion symbolizes perseverance, courage and heroism and the project itself aimed to buoy and reflect the spirits of residents of the capital, one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Jerusalem. 

With the creative power of nearly 80 new and established artists representing a wide range of Israeli art and expressionism, 80 life-size lion statues have been spread across the city. The temporary invasion of dozens of lion statues to the streets of Jerusalem has been a refreshing and fun experience for residents and visitors alike.

Pedestrians and drivers travel through the city streets taking part in the open-air exhibition. Finding their place along avenues and boulevards, roundabouts and public spaces, the parade of lion sculptures is accessible to all. Both entertaining and inspiring, the lions have brought a sense of life and vibrancy to the streets of Jerusalem. The curious spectator may find a lion coming up behind them in the most unexpected places, encouraging visitors to the city to go on a "lion hunt" to see them all!

But not for too much longer. Since September 1, 2002 the lions have been making their den at Safra Square in Jerusalem at City Hall. Throughout the month they will be on display to the public and will be part of the city's programs and activities during the Sukkot holidays. On September 30th, the lions will be sold at a public auction with all proceeds going towards many of the 22 full-day children's day care centers in Jerusalem that provide a warm safe and caring environment for children and their families from disadvataged backgrounds.

For more information about the Jerusalem Lions, visit http://lions.jerusalem.muni.il/ or contact zkyaara@jerusalem.muni.il