Geometric Elephant

Created by: Safari Ali
Location: St George Street

Overview

Artist Safira Ali’s Geometric Elephant is covered with intricate geometric patterns, inspired by the rich traditions of Islamic geometry. The colours and patterns allude to the architecture from the Mughal Empire, and repeating motifs from South Asian and Islamic history transform the elephant – as if it is a tapestry.

Location

St George Street

Meet the Artist

Safira Ali

My artistic practice explores cultural identity, contemporary design and Islamic art patterns.

Working with traditional geometric patterns and calligraphy, my work looks at these elements with a modern lens, blending heritage with a contemporary interpretation.

I am particularly drawn to the structural qualities of geometry, creating works that celebrate symmetry, and cultural storytelling.

Inspired by South Asian and Islamic art aesthetics, I often use intricate patterns, natural pigments, and handmade techniques to produce my paintings.

My practice extends to teaching, where I share this art through workshops and community projects, providing a deeper understanding of their cultural significance.

As an artist, I am committed to pushing boundaries within traditional art forms, exploring new materials, and experimenting with multidisciplinary approaches.

My work aims to honour the past and tradition and use a contemporary perspective. 

Meet the Elephants

Phoenix

Phoenix

Created by: Kibworth Mead AcademyLocation: Highcross Upper Mall- John Lewis bridgeWith representatives from across the KMA community, the team spent time discussing ideas and planning their individual patches before embarking upon the paint stage. They each created a...

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The Sum of Our Parts

The Sum of Our Parts

Created by: Jess PerrinLocation: Highcross Upper Mall- outside Timberland / Holland & BarrettThe Sum of our Parts is based on the concept that everybody is made up of the four elements: Earth, Wind, Fire and Water. In many cultures it is believed that once we die,...

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Ivy

Ivy

Created by: Iveshead SchoolLocation: Peppercorns Cafe - Abbey ParkIvy is the result of over 200 design ideas submitted by Iveshead students that we have combined to make a patchwork of student's creativity. Peppercorns Cafe - Abbey ParkMeet the Elephants

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Hathi

Hathi

Created by: India Inspired CraftsLocation: Belgrave LibraryOur sculpture has been decorated in beautiful, colourful mandalas and paisleys. Hand painted by India Inspired Crafts workshop members using bright, bold colours and embellished in gold and silver detailing....

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Elphis Presley ‘The King of Elephants’

Elphis Presley ‘The King of Elephants’

Created by: Humphrey Perkins School Location: Leicester Cathedral- GalleryThe school held a competition for the design of Elphis. Our winning students merged their designs to create an ultimate design for Elphis.The design for Elphis is a combination of mandala...

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Daisy

Daisy

Created by: Highcliffe Primary SchoolSponsored by: MertruxLocation: Lyme Regis: Leicester Cathedral - Main HallThe whole school took part in a competition to design Daisy. Pupils and govenors then picked winning entries from each key stage. We took elements from each...

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Duncan (the creative Elephant)

Duncan (the creative Elephant)

Created by: Herewoode AcademySponsored by: AMPA FoundationLocation: DMU - The GalleryStudents were challenged to design an elephant in the style of their favourite artist to represent the diversity of cultures and styles within the school. The best sixteen were given...

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Mertie

Mertie

Created by: Haymarket Shopping Centre Community HubLocation: Haymarket Shopping Centre- Community Hub (Window)The children at the Merton were very excited at the prospect of receiving an elephant to design. Following a whole school assembly, where we were joined by...

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Florence

Florence

Created by: Gorse Covert Youth ProjectLocation: Leicester Central Library - UpstairsThe starting point was “What does the community centre mean to you?” the images on Florence reflect the activities and opportunities available to people of all ages who use the...

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