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

Cellie-bration

Cellie-bration

Created by: Donna NewmanSponsored by: Viking DirectLocation: St Martins SquareMeet Cellie-bration, the inaugural elephant for Stomp Round Leicester, bursting onto the scene in an explosion of colour. The sculpture features multicoloured confetti raining down over a...

read more
Daft Elephant

Daft Elephant

Created by: daft-apeth (Serge Pizzorno)Sponsored by: TheMusicLicenceLocation: Humberstone GateDaft-apeth is none other than musician and artist, Sergio Pizzorno, also known as the creator, lead songwriter and lead guitarist of psychedelic British rock band, Kasabian....

read more
Threads of Unity

Threads of Unity

Created by: Aasiri Wickremage Sponsored by: De Montfort UniversityLocation: De Montfort University - Mill LaneThis vibrant sculpture depicts an elephant adorned with striking patterns and colours, symbolising creativity, unity, and heritage. The intricate designs...

read more
Ele-gene Voyager

Ele-gene Voyager

Created by: Marta ZubietaLocation: University of Leicester - David Wilson LibraryPrepare to be dazzled by Ele-Gene, a cosmic explorer with a scientific twist! Painted in deep galactic purples and blues, Ele-Gene is a tribute to Leicester’s groundbreaking contributions...

read more
The Mindful Elephant

The Mindful Elephant

Created by: Ruthi ElizabethLocation: Victoria Park - MemorialArtist Ruthie Elizabeth believes creativity is a source of healing, and has produced a selection of colouring books which, in her words, are designed to “uplift spirits and bring solace in a world that often...

read more
Fossilphant

Fossilphant

Created by: Donna NewmanSponsored by: Ford & SlaterLocation: Leicester Museum & Art Gallery - New WalkFossilphant is a captivating sculpture inspired by the rich fossil heritage of Charnwood Forest in Leicestershire, home to the earliest fossilised evidence of...

read more
Sir Stomp-alot

Sir Stomp-alot

Created by: AngusLocation: Orton SquareMeet 'Sir Stomp-a-lot', a truly unique elephant! Covered entirely in coins - from shiny 2 pence pieces to £2 coins - every inch of his body, from his trunk right down to his tail, gleams with metal. Because he's made from these...

read more
Harry the Dryadephant

Harry the Dryadephant

Created by: Laura BowdenSponsored by: Dryad EducationLocation: The Circle - New WalkThe sculpture is inspired by the Leicester based company Dryad Handicrafts - founded in 1907 - and its main founder Harry Hardy Peach. Dryad became influential designers and crafters...

read more
Morris

Morris

Created by: Sian TezelLocation: Bede Park - Stone CircleMorris is inspired by the artist William Morris, who designed a wallpaper pattern named ‘Leicester’. Instead of the yellow daisies on the original design, artist Sian Tezel has substituted forget-me-nots to...

read more