MACKINAC ISLAND — Rose Peltier of Escanaba was on Mackinac Island Sunday to see her creation standing guard in the lobby of the Chippewa Hotel.

Marley is a 5 foot 3 inch high lion made almost entirely of colorful fabric. He took nine months to complete and is turning heads wherever he sits.

“It’s been pretty amazing,” Peltier said. “He’s actually taken me on a nice ride. I did not expect that when I first started making him. In fact, I didn’t know if I’d finish him.”

Peltier has been making quilts for years but this is her first major artwork. To be choosen to be an artist at the international art competition, ArtPrize, in Grand Rapids is pretty remarkable.

“He does have a very nice venue. He’s going to be staying at Lions & Rabbits Art Gallery in Grand Rapids on Plainfield Avenue. So if anyone wants to go down there and see Marley, he will be there. And if you are there, please vote for Marley,” said Peltier.

Public voting is how awards are presented. More than $500-thousand is awarded each year.

For now, Marley will remain at the Chippewa Hotel on Mackinac Island as part of the Crossing the Straits exhibit of artists choosen for ArtPrize. In all, 46 artists from the U.P. are on display through Sept. 7. ArtPrize starts Sept 12.