Over 30 dog sculptures to be auctioned in Swindon for children's hospice
The pieces have formed the Big Dog Art Trail over the past two months
Last updated 19th Sep 2023
34 special dog sculptures are going under the hammer in Swindon today, raising funds for a local children's hospice.
The artworks have been dotted across the town this summer - in parks, shopping streets and libraries - to form the world's first Big Dog Art Trail.
More than 23,000 people enjoyed gazing at the sculptures during the seven weeks that they were on display. According to Julia's House Children's Hospice, which organised the event, the trail followers collectively walked around 30 million steps!
Project Manager Chris Hyde said he's been "blown away" by the public's response.
"The Swindogs and Swinpups have brought joy, excitement and colour to Swindon over the summer for locals and also for tourists to the town, many of whom have visited just to see the trail.
"It has been amazing to see everyone’s reactions and watch families, children and even pets all enjoying the amazing designs and exploring the local area to visit their favourite places, as well as discover new ones," he added.
'It took me nine months to make my dog'
The balloon dog sculptures are made from all sorts of shapes - including hotdogs, dragons and butterflies.
Caroline Parrott's piece, which was located at Lydiard Park, has been voted the best in show by users of the Big Dog Art Trail app.
Papillon is formed of more than 3,800 hand crafted aluminium butterflies. That is the equivalent of 26 Boeing 747 aeroplanes being cut by a handsaw, nose to tail!
Caroline said: "It's nice that people appreciated the work that went into my dog. It took me nine months to make my dog and was a lot of hard work.
"For people to really see what was involved in creating him, I'm very happy," she said.
Caroline added that Julia's House is a worthy charity to pledge her work to.
"I just think they're fantastic. What they do for families and carers is amazing, offering that access to respite for them all and that amazing care that they provide for the children," she told Greatest Hits Radio.
Julia's House, which supports the most seriously ill youngsters across Wiltshire and Dorset, is hoping to raise between £100,000 and £200,000 tonight.
Events like these are crucial for futureproofing the Hospice, which gets 92% of its income from public donations.
The auction, at the STEAM Museum's Great Hall, starts at 6:30pm.