St Oswald’s Hospice is planning a third public art trail in the North East after the success of its snowdogs and Elmer trails.
The Newcastle-based hospice is working with the Wild in Art company on a project that will see around 50 sculptures placed on the streets of Newcastle and surrounding areas next July. The chosen sculpture will be revealed later this year, with the hospice now calling on local businesses and other organisations to get involved by sponsoring a sculpture.
As well as raising awareness and funds for the hospice, the trail aims to give something back to the North East communities who have been a vital source of support to the charity during a challenging period.
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Jane Hogan, head of fundraising at St Oswald’s Hospice, said: “After two very difficult years when we have all been struggling, we are just so excited to announce the launch of our third art trail which we hope will be something glorious for our whole community to look forward to. It’s our way to give something back to those who have held our hand through a very challenging time, as well as an opportunity to support the revival of high streets and our creative communities.
"We think it’s time to have some fun, and what better way than unleashing giant art sculptures across our city? Our chosen sculpture remains a secret for now, but we are very confident that everyone will love it as much as we do!”
The hospice first held a sculpture trail in 2016 when snowdogs with various decorations were placed around the North East. A second trail - Elmer’s Great North Parade - followed in 2019, raising £250,000 for the hospice. As well as the 50 large sculptures in next year’s trail, there will be around 100 smaller figurines created as part of an education project which aims to inspire young people in local schools.
Michelle Percy, director of place at Newcastle City Council, said “We are looking forward to partnering with St Oswald’s Hospice on their third art trail. Tens of thousands of people engaged with Elmer’s Great North Parade and most visitors spent extra time and money enjoying our beautiful region, with an estimated economic impact of £1.2m for Tyne and Wear.
“This new trail is free, accessible to all and will be a joyous celebration of community. This announcement comes at a time when the local economy really needs a boost and our people are ready and actively seeking new things to look forward to.”
Charlie Langhorne, managing director and co-founder of Wild in Art said: “We are very excited to be working with St Oswald’s Hospice for the third time and they have picked a fantastic sculpture which we know will be brilliantly received once announced. This trail will bring businesses, the creative sector and communities together and it will be the must-visit event in the region in 2023. We can’t wait to get started!”
Businesses interested in supporting the project through sponsorship or other means should contact the team at St Oswald’s Hospice by emailing supportercare@stoswaldsuk.org or by telephone on 0191 246 9123.
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