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
Daisy
Created by: Brookvale Groby Learning CampusLocation: Lyme Regis: Haymarket Shopping Centre- Central SquareThe whole school had the opportunity to participate in this exciting fundraiser and take part in a whole school design competition. The design needed to...
Superkind
Created by: Burton-on-the-Wolds Primary SchoolSponsored by: Fleet Auction GroupLocation: Highcross Upper Mall- John Lewis BridgeThe whole school is on a mission to change the world! We believe that it is everyone's responsibility to do their bit to make the world a...
Bringo
Created by: Bringhurst Primary SchoolLocation: This + That by LOROSEvery child in the school contributed to Bringo’s design. EYFS, Year 1 and 2 began by printing brightly coloured shapes using sponges. After this, Key Stage 2 added designs to the shapes as well...
Hampi
Created by: Bridge Junior SchoolLocation: LCB Depot - WindowThe children at Bridge Junior captured their favourite elements of Leicester, our school, ethos, community and culture to design our baby elephant named Hampi. Their detailed ideas were illustrated by hand on...
Hope
Created by: Bosworth AcademySponsored by: Clarendon Speciality FastenersLocation: DMU - The GalleryThe pupils designed their elephant to celebrate, diversity, inclusion and everybody matters.DMU - The GalleryMeet the Elephants
Woody
Created by: Booth Wood AcademyLocation: Leicester Cathedral (Main Hall)The whole school were invited to take part in a design competition - the theme was bright and bold. We were blown away by the number of entries we got and by the enthusiasm of the children. It was...
Small Hands Big Hearts
Created by: BAPS Shri Swaninarayan MandirSponsored by: QDOSLocation: LOROS Market Street Shop- WindowThe design features beautifully bloomed flowers, each brought to life with the gentle fingerprints of children from the BAPS community. This heartfelt artwork...
Badgerbrook Bubbles
Created by: Badgerbrook Primary SchoolLocation: Phoenix Cinema and Arts CentreThe Tusk Force came together to discuss the design ideas for their sculpture. They wanted to incorporate the colours of the school and the ethos of what it means for everyone to work...
Elmer
Created by: Avanti Fields SchoolLocation: Peppercorns Cafe - Abbey ParkWe held a competition to design our elephant across the whole of the secondary school. The ideas came flooding in and our final design was a compilation of 15 different submissions. Over a period...