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
Poppy
Created by: St Peter & St Paul Pre- SchoolLocation: LOROS Market Street Shop - windowThe children were very excited when our baby elephant arrived and after a a discussion on names and a voting poll on our facebook page, Poppy was the favourite name. The children...
Paddy
Created by: St Patrick's Catholic Voluntary AcademyLocation: King Richard III Visitor CentreMeet ‘Paddy’ from Saint Patrick’s Catholic Voluntary Academy in the heart of the Belgrave area of Leicester. As the Patron Saint of our school, the image of Saint Patrick...
Banjowe
Created by: St John the Baptist Primary SchoolLocation: Leicester Guidehall- Great HallThe school is a happy and diverse place, with children with heritage from all over the world. The pupils wanted to reflect their own cultural backgrounds in their design for Banjo,...
The Day and Elephant Came to St. Cuthbert’s
Created by: St Cuthbert's C of E Primary SchoolLocation: Phoenix Cinema and Arts CentreAfter welcoming our elephant, the children created their own design and worked with our Arts specialist to illustrate our elephant and bring her to life.Phoenix Cinema and Arts...
Sparky the Doodlephant
Created by: Sparkenhoe Primary SchoolSponsored by: Hastings DirectLocation: Highcross Upper Mall - John Lewis bridgeThe pupils were inspired by the art of Keith Haring, Mr Doodle and Doodle Boy. They considered all of the aspects of school life that make Sparkenhoe...
Charnie
Created by: South Charnwood High SchoolLocation: Phoenix Cinema and Arts CentreMany South Charnwood High School pupils joined our competition to design Charnie. Two joint winners and three runners-up were chosen for designs embodying school life. These pupils then...
Hope
Created by: Snarestone Church of England Primary SchoolLocation: Highcross Upper Mall - John Lewis bridge Hope, our baby elephant, is a vibrant symbol of our school and village. One side features a swan, heron and kingfisher, representing our class names and a nod to...
PUZZLE
Created by: Sherrier C of E Primary SchoolLocation: Leicester Central Library - upstairsOur pupils designed Puzzle based on Sherrier's curriculum and our local community. The pupils had the chance to discuss what 'Sherrier' in Leicestershire meant to them and then...
Nature
Created by: Rushey Mead AcademyLocation: Belgrave LibraryTwo student groups from Rushey Mead Academy took a lead on coordinating the decoration of the baby elephant. The Wildlife Warriors and Student Voice Action Team. They started by surveying the whole school for a...