News Summary
Beverly Hills showcases 100 life-size Indian elephant sculptures as part of ‘The Great Elephant Migration,’ raising awareness for human-wildlife coexistence. These handmade sculptures, crafted by artisans from South India, highlight the plight of elephants and support conservation projects. The exhibition runs until August 1 along Santa Monica Boulevard with events like the auction for wildlife initiatives. Proceeds will directly benefit efforts to protect migratory animals, bringing community members together in support of wildlife conservation.
Beverly Hills is showcasing a herd of 100 life-size Indian elephant sculptures along Santa Monica Boulevard as part of an art installation known as The Great Elephant Migration. Organized by The Real Elephant Collective, this initiative seeks to promote the vital need for human-wildlife coexistence. The installation has made its final stop at Beverly Gardens Park, where it aims to raise funds for projects dedicated to protecting migratory animals.
Arriving in Beverly Hills on July 1, the herd of elephant sculptures has traveled extensively since beginning its journey in Newport, Rhode Island. The procession included visits to major cities such as New York City, Miami, Houston, Jackson Hole in Wyoming, and Browning in Montana. Each handcrafted sculpture serves as a replica of real wild elephants and is the product of skilled artisans from the Nilgiri Hills of South India.
Each of the sculptures is built using a sturdy steel rebar frame, which is then wrapped in an invasive weed sourced from India’s forests. The intricate process of crafting each elephant takes approximately three months, reflecting the artisans’ dedication and craftsmanship. Notably, before arriving in Beverly Hills, the herd visited the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing site, which is currently under construction and aims to facilitate safe animal migration.
The installation highlights the plight of both African and Asian elephants, as noted by actress and activist Kristin Davis. Visitors to the exhibit can purchase the sculptures, with prices ranging between $8,000 to $22,000. Proceeds from the sales will directly support various human-wildlife coexistence projects, including initiatives at the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing.
The display of elephant sculptures spans four blocks along Santa Monica Boulevard, extending from Rodeo Drive to Rexford Drive. The exhibit will be open to the public until August 1, providing community members and tourists a unique opportunity to engage with the artwork. Special events are also planned during the installation period, including Wrapped in History, which will take place on July 20. This event will feature an auction of 70 bespoke designer blankets, with proceeds benefiting wildlife coexistence efforts.
The initiative wraps up with a farewell event titled Kiss Them Goodbye, scheduled for August 1, which will be hosted by luxury beauty brand Chantecaille. Through the various events associated with The Great Elephant Migration, the collective aims to foster awareness and discussions about the importance of protecting wildlife and ensuring that humans and animals can thrive together in shared spaces.
As the exhibition comes to a close, the significance of these life-size elephant sculptures serves as a poignant reminder of the need to safeguard the habitats of migratory animals and promote sustainable practices that allow for harmony between humans and wildlife.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beverly Hills Hosts Life-Size Elephant Sculpture Exhibit
Great Elephant Migration Exhibition Concludes in Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills to Showcase Life-Size Elephant Sculptures
Additional Resources
- ABC7 News
- Los Angeles Magazine
- Time Out Los Angeles
- Google Search: Great Elephant Migration
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Elephant
