In 2021, a herd of more than 70 beautifully decorated Elephant sculptures took their places for the biggest public art event Bedfordshire had ever seen.
These stunning sculptures trumpeted along the free, fun and family-friendly art trail around Luton’s key landmarks, streets and open spaces, bringing together the community for one unforgettable jumbo event and to celebrate 30 years of our partners Keech Hospice Care, who provide much-needed specialist care.
Alongside the large sculptures which were painted by local and national artists, 41 smaller elephants, painted by local schools and community groups, joined the trail as part of the learning programme. The schools and groups fundraised for Keech and their sculptures were on display together at six indoor locations.
At the end of the spectacular trail, 38 of the large sculptures went to auction and raised a staggering £231,500 for Keech. The highest bid of the night was £25,000 for the sculpture Unity, which was the first elephant to be decorated for the trail.
I am excited at the thought of these magnificent elephants standing among Luton’s iconic attractions and streets, bringing colour and fun to the town. Another collective name for elephants is a ‘memory’ and, as a hospice, we hope The Big Trunk Trail will bring people together to remember loved ones while creating fantastic new memories.
Liz Searle
Keech Hospice Care CEO
Luton is my home town so it makes me so proud that Keech Hospice Care is putting on this amazing art trail for everyone to enjoy. Sometimes it’s tough to find things to do with children over the summer holidays that don’t cost the earth and I’m sure loads of parents will be delighted to take their kids, for free, to visit all the gorgeous elephants and lovely locations on The Big Trunk Trail. I’ve been lucky enough to visit Keech and see the incredible care and support they give to patients and families when they need it the most, and giving something back to the town that have supported them is a great way to celebrate its thirtieth anniversary.
Nadiya Hussain
British chef and author
We’re delighted to have been able to partner with such a great charity as Keech Hospice Care. These elephants will give people the opportunity to take a leisurely stroll around Luton’s parks and landmarks enjoying these beautiful, cheerful art works while remembering what great service the charity has given to everyone for the past thirty years.
Charlie Langhorne
Managing Director and Co-founder of Wild in Art
