Bradford is one of four venues in the UK chosen to host artworks to celebrate the 80th anniversary of beloved children’s characters the Moomins.

Moominvalley residents were created by Finnish illustrator and author Tove Jansson(With his first book published in 1945, TheMoominsandtheGreatFloodi

To celebrate the milestone birthday, four artists were commissioned to create public artworks inspired by the first Moomins story.

The upcoming UK City of Culture has been selected to host Palestinian artist Basel Zaraa’s artwork at Bowling Park in June 2025.

Originally written in Swedish, the books have been translated into 60 languages ​​and sold millions of copies worldwide.

The anniversary celebrations will be held under the theme “The Door is Always Open,” a reference to Moominhouse’s door that offers shelter, comfort and security.

The artworks will also be exhibited at the Southbank Center in London, the Baltic Center for Contemporary Art in Gateshead and the Gloucester Guildhall.

Shanaz Gulzar, creative director of Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture, said: “We are delighted to be part of this global project celebrating the 80th anniversary of these much-loved characters.

“Bradford is a city of sanctuary, a city of peace and a city of refuge for people from all over the world.

“Basel Zaraa’s work shows that audiences, no matter where they are from, will be welcomed, included and safe at Bradford 2025.”

Listen to the highlights West Yorkshire on BBC Soundsfollow the latest developments New episode of Look North or tell us a story you’re thinking of we must protect this place.