Between June and September 2022, Ipswich town centre is set to become home to 40 colourful owl sculptures, each sponsored by a local business. With some Big Hoots already nesting in the charity’s retail locations, every owl will be individually decorated by a local artist before being auctioned off in the autumn. All proceeds will raise funds for St Elizabeth’s Hospice, a charity providing care and support to those living with life-limiting illnesses.
In addition to flocking to see the Big Hoots, participants can enjoy tracking down sixty Little Hoot owls, designed by local schools and young people and perched in various locations across town.
Grace Kerr, Partner and CSR Chair at Birketts, commented: “We are delighted to support St Elizabeth’s Hospice with its third Wild in Art trail, especially in the wake of such a difficult year for charities across the UK. Following the successes of the Elmer Big Parade in 2019 and Pigs Gone Wild in 2016, the event is fast becoming a local tradition and one which grows more popular among Suffolk residents and their families every year. Keep your eye on Birketts’ social channels this summer to find out who we commissioned to decorate our Big Hoot!”
Liz Baldwin, Corporate and Sponsorship Fundraising Manager at St Elizabeth Hospice, added: “After a difficult year, St Elizabeth’s Hospice is delighted to usher in some positivity in the form of this new art project. Having been overwhelmed by the public’s affection for our previous trails, we are proud to bring the community together once more to follow the Big Hoot. As well as showcasing the best of the county’s artistic talent, the trail is set to offer a welcome boost for the local economy whilst continuing to highlight the vital work done by the hospice. We’re pleased that Birketts have signed-up to be part of our third collaboration with Wild in Art and we have no doubt the event will be a huge draw for the town next summer.”
When the trail wraps up in September, the sculptures will be auctioned off in aid of St Elizabeth’s Hospice. All the money raised will go towards providing vital care and support to patients with life-limiting conditions and their families throughout East Suffolk, Great Yarmouth and Waveney.
Image credit: St Elizabeth’s Hospice