The wild sculpture trail including apes, rhinos and elephants taking over a town for the Christmas Holidays
Published Nov 2024 by Surrey Live
The streets of Kingston have some rather unusual guests. Wild animals are currently roaming the area, posing for photos.
The town has unveiled its new sculpture trail, featuring nine wildlife-inspired pieces of art. From gorillas and rhinos to the more humble dog, the display opened on November 6, and will continue to be in place until next year.
The nine sculptures are along Clarence Street and form an interactive trail that encourages visitors to connect with their surroundings in the town centre. The exhibition is free to the public and is ideal for families, art enthusiasts, and those passionate about conservation.
It comes after last year's ‘Chimps Are Family’ trail last year. Its success meant Kingston First, the town’s Business Improvement District, invited internationally acclaimed artists Gillie & Marc to transform the streets. Gillie & Marc, known for their large-scale public sculptures installed in cities around the globe, and have created this series to raise awareness about the importance of protecting endangered species.
Shareena Merzi, Director of Communications and Corporate Development at Kingston First, said: “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Gillie and Marc once again to bring ‘Wild Kingston’ to life in the town centre. This exhibition not only raises awareness about wildlife conservation but also breathes new life into Kingston’s public spaces, inviting residents and visitors alike to engage with art in an accessible, interactive way. By activating the town centre with these beautiful sculptures, we hope to inspire meaningful conversations, foster community connections, and make Kingston an even more vibrant and welcoming place.”
While Kingston is not technically in Surrey, it is easy enough to get to. As it is just over the border, it is a quick drive from nearby Esher, Epsom or Weybridge. While Locations like Guildford and Woking are further way, Kingston is still accessible by car or train.
Gillie and Marc, award-winning artists of the ‘Wild Kingston’ sculptures said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be returning to Kingston upon Thames with our new collection of sculptures, following the incredible success of our ‘Chimps are Family’ exhibition. This upcoming exhibition is one of our most exciting yet, featuring some of our most interactive pieces, including our iconic Dogman and Rabbitwoman, alongside sculptures of the world’s most endangered species. Kingston has a special place in our hearts, and we can’t wait to share this collection with the community, bringing awareness to wildlife conservation in a way that connects and inspires people of all ages.”
You can visit Kingston upon Thames to learn more.
