More than 30 specially designed life-sized ox sculptures will take over the streets of Oxford next year in an ‘OxTrail’ event.
The huge art installation is being brought to the region by Sobell House Hospice with Wild in Art.
An official launch party will take place today (July 12) at Blavatnik School of Government from 7pm to 9pm.
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This VIP event is aimed at businesses, organisations, artists and schools who are supporting or considering supporting the trail.
The first decorated oxen will be on display in an unveiling for sponsors.
Businesses with an operation in Oxford can sponsor an ox sculpture providing them with their very own ‘ox-citing’ life-sized animal in the trail next year.
Each of the life-sized oxen will be uniquely decorated by local and international artists to form a vibrant and family-friendly trail.
More than 30 oxen will make up the OxTrail with nearly half of these already sponsored.
However, it’s not too late to join the ‘herd’.
Amelia Foster, chief executive at Sobell House Hospice Charity, said: “OxTrail is designed to bring the city together.
“These art trails have been hugely successful in doing so in other regions so we’re delighted to bring it to Oxford for the first time.
“Taking place next summer, each of the oxen will be uniquely decorated by local and international artists.
“Across eight weeks, OxTrail will encourage locals and visitors of all ages to explore Oxford’s iconic attractions and find some hidden gems.
“The oxen will be extremely eye-catching so, when they all come together, it’s going to look great as they take over our streets.”
OxTrail will launch to the public on July 6 next year and the art will be on display until the end of August 2024.
After this, sculptures will be auctioned off to raise money for the hospice.
Oxford Brookes has already been confirmed as the learning programme partner for the event.
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The university will support schools in the creation of mini-herds via the OxTrail learning programme which aims to expand the trail from the oxen in the city to smaller herds appearing further across the county.
Sobell House Hospice has provided compassionate care to adults with a life-limiting illness and supported their loved ones since 1976.
They care for around 500 people across Oxfordshire at home, on our inpatient unit and in local hospitals.
Sobell House Hospice is jointly funded by the NHS and the Sobell House Hospice Charity.
Every year, the charity raises around £2 million to help fund the care they provide.
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