Hands up who completed the OxTrail 24 and saw all of the moo-cows before it ended on the 29th August? If you didn’t, would you like one last chance to tick some of your list?
This weekend, Leiden Square transforms into a bovine bonanza as 50 fabulous OxTrail sculptures make their grand entrance on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th September. Yes, you heard right! The Westgate Oxford shopping centre is turning into a pop-up pasture in a vibrant display that’s part charity, part art extravaganza, all in support of the wonderful Sobell House Hospice.
From quirky to quintessentially Oxford, these oxen aren’t just any old cattle. They’re a herd of 138 brightly painted sculptures that have been jazzing up the Oxfordshire landscape all summer long. Trailblazers hopefully snagged a map and embarked on a county-wide quest to discover these artistic oxen in their natural habitat, from shopping centres to scenic spots!
After a summer of playing host to the Hub Shop, your go-to spot for all things OxTrail including trail maps and cool memorabilia, Westgate Oxford is now gearing up for the main event. Imagine this: a plaza packed with the crème de la crème of oxen, crafted by the likes of David Mellor and Korky Paul, not to mention the creative geniuses from local schools and businesses. And not a cowpat in sight.
Brendan Hattam, the centre director at Westgate, couldn’t hide his excitement, declaring,
“Hosting the hub shop and a quartet of oxen has been a thrill, and we’re amping up for an ox-traordinary weekend showcasing this stunning herd. It’s more than just a spectacle; it’s a community gathering that champions a great cause. So, locals and travellers alike, come witness this moo-velous array before they trot off to the auction block!”
And speaking of good causes, all the money raised from the upcoming charity auction on 13th September will hoof it directly to Sobell House Hospice, including the eagerly anticipated Postb-ox Oxen, This rare and unique Oxon features doodles and signatures from celebrities like Dame Judi Dench and Radiohead, where these sculptures will be sold to raise additional funds for the hospice . This local charity offers invaluable support to individuals receiving palliative care and their families, making every bid count towards a noble purpose.
Beth Marsh from Sobell House Hospice shares the sentiment,
“Working with Westgate Oxford has been an absolute dream. They’ve provided space for creativity and care, hosting our oxen and the hub shop. As we prepare for the Farewell Weekend, it’s a bittersweet moment to bid adieu to our beloved herd. Thanks to the overwhelming support, we’re poised to raise significant funds to continue our mission.”
So, Oxford, are you ready for a weekend of art, heart, and community spirit? Don’t be a party-pooper and miss out on this moo-mentous occasion!
