Harry the Dryadephant
Created by: Laura Bowden
Sponsored by: Dryad Education
Location: The Circle – New Walk
Overview
The 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 of cane & rattan furniture during the Arts & Crafts movement in the UK.
Artist LOZZIBF23’s interpretation features many of the intricacies of the repeat patterns and design details used in Dryad’s wickerweave furniture – as if showcased at the World Fair of 1910.
Location
The Circle – New Walk
Meet the Artist
Laura Bowden (LOZZIEBF23)
Originally from Bristol but currently living in Exeter I started working life as a Graphic assistant in Screen Printing before freelancing, private commissions and sign writing as my main source of income.
Artistic pursuits then put on hold for travelling, living my best life and raising a family as a stay at home mum until both children finished University and flew the nest. So it is only in the last 4 years I have found my way back to my art.
Last year I was fortunate enough to be selected to paint one of my designs on a Shaun the Sheep for the Brighton & Hove 2023 art trail. ‘Masquerade’ later sold at auction generating £3,200 for Martlets Hospice care. Lot 16 @shaunbythesea on Instagram. Such a privilege and an unforgettable experience.
I still work totally analog and really enjoy the whole design and creation process, producing bold, punchy stylised artwork using bright colours and metallic acrylic paints. My style is heavily influenced by my love of all things Arts & Crafts, Art Deco and Art Nouveau.
Meet the Sponsor
Dryad Education
We are a leading supplier of Art, Design and Technology resources to educational establishments, students and artists worldwide.
Our extensive range includes over 28,000 products, including our own Specialist Crafts brand, offering high-quality art materials at sensible prices. Our in-house experts continuously try, test, and develop the range, staying ahead of the trends to ensure you have access to the latest products and techniques
Meet the Elephants
Ellie
Created by: Amy BourbonSponsored by: Marcol LtdLocation: Victoria Park - Queens Road EntranceEllie is a fully lifelike young African elephant. She is representing her kind as sadly her species is at risk of extinction. She loves welcoming visitors! Elephants like...
I’m All Ears
Created by: Katy DynesSponsored by: Highcross LeicesterLocation: Highcross - St Peters SquareWe all often forget to ask those important every day questions that really matter or make a difference. Artist Katy Dynes’ elephant, I'm All Ears, is adorned with a host of...
Legionary Maximus Elephantus
Created by: Karis YoungmanLocation: Jewry WallLegionary Maximus is proud to welcome you to the roman town of Ratae Corieltauvorum - Roman Leicester. Maybe you’ve come to take a bath or do some shopping in the Forum or the new Market hall? Maximus is happy to show you...
Harmony
Created by: Charlotte PepperSponsored by: Cambridge & Counties Bank Location: Abbey Park Pavilion CafeHarmony the elephant is a vibrant reflection of Leicester and its creatively rich community. It expresses the spirit of a diverse yet united city, whilst...
Trunk of Gold
Created by: Gayani AriyaratneLocation: Belgrave CircleThis design draws inspiration from Leicester’s vibrant wildflowers - which are an intricate part of the ecosystem - weaving together cultural, historical, and natural themes. Golden elephants have long been symbols...
Rose
Created by: Caroline CoatesLocation: The Rally - Soar Lane BridgeArtist Caroline Coates was inspired by growing up exploring the Grand Union Canal and other waterways on her late father's canal boat. Rose is a contemporary take on traditional canal art.The Rally -...
Sunflower
Created by: Reilly CreativeSponsored by: Oadby PlasticsLocation: The Clock TowerThis design has been inspired by Vincent Van Gogh’s iconic Sunflowers. The artists said: “His paintings reminded us of the amazing work LOROS does and how there are so many people who are...
Watch Out for the 9 O’clock Horses
Created by: Christina WigmoreSponsored by: uptonsteelLocation: Great Central SquareThe design of abstract ghostly horses and a child shouting a warning is based on a Victorian era Leicester folk tale parents used to get children into bed and asleep by 9pm. Before...
Elebug
Created by: Sarah & Anna HarrisonLocation: Abbey Park East - LakesideWho scurries up stalks and munches on aphids? With a handy trunk for watering plants? It’s Elebug! Can you spot her? Elebug is a colourful celebration of imagination and the natural world. This...