Visionary Art lands at Leicester Tigers

6 Years since the he first penned the original design concepts; Harvey Gardiner has revealed a ground-breaking monument in the heart of Leicester.

“When we were Tigers” celebrates the 54 Leicester Tigers rugby players who lost their lives in war.

Created in conjunction with artist Steve Winterburn the statue stands nearly 20ft tall and captures the spirit of the players whose stories of courage and bravery are interpreted to inspire people to get involved with the work of the Leicester Tigers Foundation.

The giant tiger’s head is orientated towards Ypres, whilst the monument takes you on a journey from Bida to Berlin via the QR Codes, across the fifteen different countries where the players sadly died.
Along with explaining the close ties with the Leicestershire Regiment and Leicester Tigers which goes back to the club’s formation in 1880, we also recognise the links between the British Lions, our international players, and the Barbarians.
“This monument is special; it is the starting point of a new movement of interactive art. Art that makes a difference!

Using new technology our aim is to advance the connection of heritage to a broader audience of communities and inspire people by engaging through sport.

This is not just a statue; it is a living sculpture that is evolving all the time through its built-in outreach and connectivity programmes. A piece of Art that educates and crosses boundaries. A place to start to create a brighter future.”