Oxen come to Oxford as huge art installation kicks off

Large oxen sculptures will come to the city of Oxford this weekend, as a huge art installation across the county called 'OxTrail' kicks off.

The 31 uniquely decorated pieces have been designed by International and UK artists and will be placed at key locations across the iconic city.

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The project is is being brought to Oxfordshire by Sobell House Hospice charity and Wild in Art and will see a herd of over 130 ox sculptures take over the county this summer. It starts on July 6.

Artists were invited to submit their designs for the large oxen last year. Of 190 entrants, OxTrail sponsors selected 31 designs and 17 of those are based in or have close connections to Oxfordshire.

Selected artists include children's illustrator kOrky Paul and author David Melling.

Around 85 schools and community groups are taking part in OxTrail via the 'mini oxen' sculptures, of which there are more than 100, and which will be displayed across the county in libraries, hotels and community spaces. Two are from from noted interior designer Annie Sloan CBE.

The art event means families can explore the city and spot the oxen in and around the county, following the trail using the app or map.

The OxTrail art will be on display until the end of August and on September 13 the sculptures will be auctioned off to raise money for the hospice.

Wild in Art is the leading producer of spectacular public art events, while Sobell House Hospice provides compassionate care to adults with a life-limiting illness and supported their loved ones.

At any given time, it cares for around 500 people across Oxfordshire at home, on its inpatient unit, in local hospitals, and through its Living Well service.

For more information on OxTrail, see HERE.