Brewers Bedford Supports The Big Trunk Trail

November 3rd, 2021

Sarah Harrison, local Bedford artist reached out to Brewers Bedford for the donation of Albany Smooth Masonry paint in a range of colours to support The Big Trunk Trail. Canary, Mariner Blue, Sapling, Spring, Channel Blue, Black, Bronze Gold, Plum, Sky, Blossom and Deep Pink were just some of the colours used in the vibrant piece.

Image courtesy of rucookphotography.com

The Big Trunk Trail brought together communities and visitors across Luton at their biggest and most unique outdoor public art event. Over 30 giant elephants were decorated and placed in Luton’s key landmarks, streets, and open spaces for people to come and discover.

Image courtesy of rucookphotography.com

Wild in Art and Keech Hospice Care were in partnership with Love Luton and others to bring The Big Trunk Trail to Luton between 10th July – 8th October 2021. Sarah Harrison was one of the 30 selected artists commissioned to paint one of the elephant sculptures. 

Image courtesy of rucookphotography.com

The elephants are made from fibreglass, finished in white primer with outdoor waterproofing varnish. Brewers Bedford were more than happy to supply the rest of the materials required to help Sarah achieve her design.

“Trunks through Changing Seasons” or as he is more affectionately known, “Acorn” was painted between March-May 2021 and adorns a beautifully bright representation of trees throughout the changing seasons.

Image courtesy of rucookphotography.com

My dream has been to work big, and to work outdoors. It has been so exciting to participate in my first 'Wild in Art’ project, meeting and learning from other artists, then seeing the public's reaction and interaction with the elephants has been amazing.

Art has the power to start conversations, spark joy and bring people together. 

Public space is the ultimate gallery, accessible to all. With the added magic that passers-by can discover artwork, in streets or parks, unplanned and by chance."

Image courtesy of rucookphotography.com

"The elephant sculptures have played a role in storytelling, community building and place-making, during their parade around Luton this summer.

The trail has combined creativity and walking, two great ingredients for wellbeing - with the timing particularly meaningful, whilst coming out of lockdown.” 

Image courtesy of rucookphotography.com

“Thank you, Brewers, for your beautiful vibrant Albany masonry paints. They were such a treat to use, and people have commented on how lovely the colours are.” Sarah Harrison, Artist, Sarah Harrison Illustration.

Image courtesy of rucookphotography.com

All of the elephants are a part of a ticketed farewell event at Stockwood Discovery Centre this week (30 October – 7 November) before The Big Trunk Trial Charity Auction on 11th November. The 34 adult elephants will retire to their new homes, raising funs for Keech Hospice Care.

Image courtesy of rucookphotography.com

Find out more about The Big Trunk Trail Here>>