Trunk of Gold
Created by: Gayani Ariyaratne
Location: Belgrave Circle
Overview
This 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 of power, strength, good luck, bountiful harvests, royal legacy, enduring memory, prosperity, love, and even a touch of magic. These associations, rooted in ancient folklore and Indian mythology, highlight the elephant’s revered status across cultures. The Golden Mile is also central to this sculpture. Renowned for its hosiery and shoe-making factories, as well as its rich cultural heritage, it represents Leicester’s unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Location
Belgrave Circle
Meet the Artist
Gayani Ariyaratne
Originating from the enchanting landscapes of Sri Lanka and now finding my place in the diverse community of Great Barr, Birmingham and Melton Mowbray, I embrace the roles of an artist, plant based educator, and a versatile individual with a range of skills. Since 2017, I’ve been a part of the Wild in Art community, drawing inspiration from the delicate wonders of nature, especially the grace of flowers and the marvels of the natural world. My art serves as a reflection of my deep-seated love for the environment and my commitment to climate advocacy, prioritising saving elephants in Sri Lanka. In my journey, I’ve also dedicated my talents to charitable endeavors, raising funds for various causes. Participating in this art trail for LOROS Hospice is a heartfelt endeavor, allowing me to contribute to a cause that holds immense importance.
Meet the Elephants
Kaleidoscope
Created by: Glebelands Primary SchoolLocation: King Richard III Visitor CentreThe whole school had the brief of diversity. They then represented this in their designs along with the school values of Empathy, Learning, Respect and Kindness. The whole school agreed that...
Geraldine
Created by: Gartree High SchoolLocation: This + That by LOROSAll of our KS3 students worked so hard in coming up with incredible design ideas for our elephant - exploring different cultures, the idea of loss and healing, and things that give us happiness and comfort....
Atlas
Created by: Ellesmere CollegeLocation: Westcotes LibraryEllesmere students have been looking at environmental issues this year. They wanted to highlight some of those issues in the design of Atlas and in his description. Green house gas emissions associated with food...
Dorothy
Created by: Dorothy Goodman SchoolLocation: Attenborough Arts Centre - The Salmon GalleryThe sculpture was delivered to the Vocational Sixth Form site of Dorothy Goodman School. Students got to see the elephant for the first time in an end of day assembly. They were...
Rosemary
Created by: Danemill Primary SchoolSponsored by: SimplifyLocation: Leicester Cathedral - Main HallAfter hearing about the ASHA charity and how they support children in the slums of India the Children of Danemill thought there would be no one better to look to for...
Effie
Created by: Church Hill Infant SchoolLocation: Leicester Guildhall- Great HallWe based the design on our school values. Each class was given a focus value to create a design for their section of the elephant. The five designs were; Teamwork, Excellence, Being Unique,...
Addai
Created by: Christ the King Catholic Voluntary AcademyLocation: Westcotes LibraryAll children had the chance to submit a design idea for our elephant. From nearly 200 designs, a selection from across year groups were picked to be included in our final design. The idea...
Sparkle
Created by: Christ Church & St Peter's Primary SchoolLocation: LOROS Bookshop - WindowThe whole school took part in a competition to design Sparkle. We really wanted her to represent the school, our values… and our sparkly edges! Someone mentioned the tea towels...
Artie
Created by: Charnwood ArtsSponsored by: Morningside (Aspire Pharma)Location: Attenborough Arts Centre- The Salmon GalleryCharnwood Arts is dedicated to promoting creativity, inclusion and community engagement through the arts. This is why our artists wanted to create...