A Trunkload of Fun!

Have you ‘herd’ about the trunkload of fun that's stampeded to West Dorset this spring?

To support the brilliant Weldmar Hospicecare, local businesses have kindly sponsored an exciting and eye-catching art sculpture trail of 59 beautifully decorated elephants, individually and uniquely designed by local & national artists. Small and giant elephant sculptures can be found at coastal locations and in historic towns until 27th May in West Dorset.

One such sponsor is Mapperton House and Gardens, who were able to choose the design of their elephant. Viscount Hinchingbrooke, Luke Montagu, of Mapperton Estate says: “We chose ‘Sanctuary’ as our design as it reflects the rewilding project at Mapperton that is encouraging wildlife to flourish on the estate.” Local artist Nicola Dennis created ‘Sanctuary’ from a blank canvas onto the curves of the elephant and completed the piece at the start of the New Year.

With the weather improving day by day, you’ll want to get out and explore, and this new art trail offers the perfect opportunity! Seek out the elephants at the iconic cliffs of West Bay, to the Cobb at Lyme Regis and in Bridport. Those of you who participate in the trail can unlock a reward relevant to each sculpture, or maybe you want to get a selfie of you and your favourite elephant – who could blame you, they are rather striking!

Whilst the trail is completley free for all to enjoy, Stampede by the Sea is aiming to raise vital funds for Weldmar Hospicecare.  Those who are able are invited to download the app, buy a trail leaflet or maybe you have would like to remember a loved one by adding their name to the Memory Elephant (pictured below). When the trail has ended the Memory Elephant will find it's forever home at the inpatient gardens in Dorchester for all to enjoy and reflect. Find out more on the Memory Elephant here.

Don't miss this wonderful new attraction for the local area this spring, importantly helping to to raise awareness and funds for Weldmar Hospicecare, who provide specialist end of life care for local adults with a life limiting illness, as well as support for their loved ones. Everyday Weldmar needs to find a whopping £27,500 to continue to offer their much needed support and care, donations are essential for their survival. At the end of the trail, the elephants will be sold off at auction to raise further funds for Weldmar Hospicecare.

For more information: Art Trail Locations