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
Ezra
Created by: Merrydale Junior SchoolLocation: Leicester Cathedral - Main HallOur school values are belonging, excellence, aspiration and respect. We decided that our baby elephant should be respectful and kind because it can set a good example for the rest of the...
Ezra
Created by: Mercenfeld Primary SchoolLocation: Haymarket Shopping Centre - Community Hub (window)The school ran a competition for the children to complete their sculpture designs and winners were then picked. Ideas from the four winning designs were picked to go on...
Maple
Created by: Maplewell Hall SchoolLocation: Leicester Museum & Art Gallery - Leicester Stories Gallery (downstairs)Maple isn’t just any model elephant— their burst of colour and creativity makes them totally unique! With their bright rainbow of blues, reds,...
Deena, the DNA-lephant
Created by: MacIntyreLocation: Leicester Museum & Art Gallery - Leicester Stories Gallery (Downstairs)Our DNA is what makes us as people and in the same way our company DNA illustrates all our values. All the people who draw on our support made their own design on...
Baby Botanical
Created by: Lucy HebdenLocation: Highcross Upper Mall - outside Timberland / Holland & BarrettBaby Botanical is inspired by the African forest elephants who are the smallest elephant species, and perfect for a smaller sculpture. They live in the tropical forests...
Lemmy the Elephant
Created by: Loughborough Grammar SchoolLocation: DMU - The GalleryThe boys of Loughborough Grammar school came up with their own designs based on the values and heritage of our school and to reflect the diversity of our student body and wider community. The design was...
Nova
Created by: Loughborough Baptist ChurchLocation: Haymarket Shopping Centre- Central SquareEach group thought about elephants and their habitats, taking part in games and craft activities relating to elephants. They learned about elephants’ lives, from new beginnings...
Dotty
Created by: LOROS HospiceSponsored by: Dryad EducationLocation: Highcross Upper Mall - Opposite BootsDotty was designed by LOROS Hospice’s CHANCE Club (bereaved children's club). They decided to incorporate our Tree of Life into the design so all of our staff,...
Tales
Created by: Leicester Libraries Neighbourhood ServicesSponsored by: QDOSLocation: Leicester Central Library - UpstairsThe Library was inspired by the Elmer story book, post cards were gathered together from library users and community groups, including nurseries,...