Elephants are parading across London this month. These two were livening up an otherwise tastefully muted South Molton Street. The concept of using large models as a canvas for designs isn't new of course. I think it all started with a herd of illustrated cows, but since then I've seen massive painted dogs in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (who knew the Canary Islands were named after big dogs, not little birds?) while in Liverpool everywhere had Superlambananas.
Of course the elephant visit is for a good cause as well as a bit of fun. Asian elephants are on the brink of extinction and the sculptures will be auctioned to raise money to fund the work of the Elephant Family charity. Whether Asian elephants can be saved is a difficult issue. Sadly, the streets of London are not their natural habitat and humans are moving in to the places they prefer to call home.
The sculptures are so charming, I almost wish the real things were suited to the urban environment. I definitely can't help wishing we humans were a little less destructive when we stepped onto elephant territory.
5 comments:
I came across one, bronzed with lots of circular mirrors, off Oxford Street this week. It was an unexpected delight.
Hi Lexi
The unexpectedness of the elephant makes it all the more delightful, don't you think? Will you bid for one in the auction? You could perhaps convert it into a rocking elephant.
K
I think not - an elephant, even a small one, would need a lot of room...
London is full of interesting things.
Any pink elephants?
I'm certain at least one of them will be pink, Norm. They seem to come in every shade and hue; with many choosing the multi-coloured option. Like spring flowers, they're brightening the place up wonderfully.
K
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