News Summary
A herd of 100 life-size Indian elephant sculptures is on display on Santa Monica Boulevard in Beverly Hills, aimed at raising awareness for human-wildlife coexistence. The exhibit, titled ‘The Great Elephant Migration’, features handcrafted sculptures by artisans from South India and will run until August 1. Proceeds from the sculptures will benefit migratory animal protection projects, with a farewell event scheduled for August 1 to emphasize conservation efforts.
Beverly Hills Hosts Life-Size Elephant Sculpture Exhibit
A herd of 100 life-size Indian elephant sculptures is currently on display on Santa Monica Boulevard in Beverly Hills as part of an art installation titled “The Great Elephant Migration.” This initiative aims to raise awareness about the significance of human-wildlife coexistence.
The art exhibit is organized by The Real Elephant Collective and represents the final stop of a cross-country tour that began in Newport, Rhode Island. After making stops in cities like New York, Miami, Houston, and Browning, Montana, the herd of elephants arrived in Beverly Hills on July 1. The sculptures will remain on view until August 1.
The funds raised from the sale of the elephant sculptures will directly benefit migratory animal protection projects. Each of the sculptures is handcrafted by artisans from the Nilgiri Hills of South India, using a steel rebar frame wrapped in an invasive weed found in Indian forests. It takes approximately three months to create a single sculpture.
Exhibit Details and Significance
The art installation spans four blocks between Rodeo Drive and Rexford Drive, highlighting the importance of coexistence between humans and wildlife in urban environments, especially in India. The sculptures made a notable stop at the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing, which is currently in the final phase of construction, symbolizing the need for safe passage for wildlife.
Each elephant sculpture is priced between $8,000 and $22,000 and is available for purchase. Proceeds from these sales will support various wildlife coexistence initiatives, including the efforts at the wildlife crossing. A special textile event titled “Wrapped in History” is also part of the exhibition, featuring 70 bespoke blankets designed by global designers, with proceeds benefiting wildlife initiatives.
Community Engagement and Farewell Event
The installation has attracted attention from various community members and activists. A farewell event, named “Kiss Them Goodbye,” is planned for August 1, sponsored by the luxury beauty brand Chantecaille. The event aims to highlight the importance of conservation efforts for both African and Asian elephants.
Overall, the elephant sculptures serve as a reminder of the challenges facing migratory animals today, while also celebrating the artistry of the artisans involved in their creation. The significance of the exhibit goes beyond aesthetics, promoting a vital message of coexistence and conservation that resonates with audiences in Beverly Hills and beyond.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Great Elephant Migration Exhibition Concludes in Beverly Hills
Santa Monica Community Gardens Face 200% Fee Increases
Beverly Hills Council Discusses New Signage Regulations
Beverly Hills Courier Wins 13 California Journalism Awards
Beverly Hills to Showcase Life-Size Elephant Sculptures
Additional Resources
- ABC7 News
- Wikipedia
- Los Angeles Magazine
- Google Search: Elephant Migration
- KTLA News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Elephants
- Time Out Los Angeles
- Google Scholar: Wildlife Coexistence
- Beverly Press
- Google News: Elephants in Beverly Hills
