WITH JUST months to go before life-sized rhinos start popping up across Southampton another business has signed up to take centre stage.
The Mayflower theatre will soon be getting its own multi-coloured rhino as the city gets ready for Marwell Wildlife’s Go! Rhinos public art extravaganza.
The project, backed by the Daily Echo, has already won great support from businesses and schools across the county, all eager to back the event, which promises to boost the economy and raise awareness of the incredible creatures in the wild.
A unique trail throughout the city will be created for ten weeks this summer, where families will get the chance to spot all the rhino sculptures, painted with designs by local artists.
Michael Ockwell, chief executive of The Mayflower theatre, said: “As the premier arts venue for the region, The Mayflower theatre is delighted to become one of the latest sponsors to Marwell Wildlife’s Go! Rhinos campaign.
“This campaign is going to be great for Hampshire in the summer, bringing a real focus to the area raising awareness of conservation and supporting local charities.
“Being new to the area, I only noticed the busts of a Lion on the front of the theatre recently, I am sure our Rhino will be happy to be supported by the king of the animals.”
The project is asking businesses to pay between £3,500 to £4,000 for a sculpture, which they can then choose to decorate with one of a variety of designs by local artists.
Some of the proceeds from the auction of the sculptures at the end of the ten-week trail through the city, will go towards Marwell Wildlife’s work with rhino conservation. Money will also go towards other conservation projects within the park, as well as the Rose Road Association.
For more information call Kirstie on 01962 777931.