Aizpute plans sculpture and merchandise after animal clash

A widely discussed fight between a badger and a hedgehog has drawn new attention to Aizpute, with residents planning a sculpture and creating themed clothing and bags, LSM reported, citing TV Kurzeme.

The story has reached beyond Latvia. Residents said friends and relatives had contacted them from around the world, and a representative of the South Kurzeme municipality, Kristīne Pastore, said an American radio station had also broadcast the news.

Aizpute residents are considering an outdoor sculpture showing the badger as the aggressor and the hedgehog as the victim. A design has been drafted, and organisers plan to approach local sculptor Gatis Selderiņš. The Aizpute residents’ council hopes to seek donations from local businesses after residents offered to contribute.

Resident Kristīne Āreniece, who enjoys sewing, is making shopping bags featuring the animals as gifts for friends. She said one would go to the police officer who separated them. She may make bags to order if there is demand.

The Better Together brand is producing screen-printed shirts to order using a design by local artist Gerda Šmite. Brand representative Linda Lūse said people from Aizpute and elsewhere in Latvia, including Riga, had expressed interest in visiting and buying a shirt.