SOUTHAMPTON is set to welcome a new art exhibition as a herd of decorated elephant statues heads to Westquay.

From May 22 onwards, Westquay will be the home of Elephant Parade, the world’s largest art exhibition of decorated elephant statues.

Founded in 2006, the art exhibitions are aimed at inspiring the communities they visit and raising awareness on elephant conservation.

In the past they have drawn on artistic contributions from hundreds of public figures including Ricky Gervais, Alex Jones, Sir Richard Branson, Leona Lewis and Joss Stone.

This is the first time the elephants will be heading to the South Coast and comes after a “landmark” London event in the summer of 2010.

Each elephant statue is said to be “totally unique” and designed by an artist from around the globe.

Daily Echo: The designs for two of the elephants that will appear at Westquay.The designs for two of the elephants that will appear at Westquay.

The creations are expected to “brighten up” visitor’s days with the exhibition set to be spread around the entire centre, including the Upper Terrace and Esplanade.

Laura Read, general manager at Westquay said: “At Westquay we pride ourselves on being able to offer memorable experiences for our customers, and the Elephant Parade is no exception.

“As well as being picture-perfect family fun, it is also an opportunity to get to know more about these wonderful animals. We are really pleased to welcome the Elephant Parade to Westquay and to help their mission to support and raise awareness for elephant conservation.”

Along with art, each installation offers a series of facts about elephants and the artist behind the designs.

René de Wit, managing director at Elephant Parade added: “After more than a decade of visiting so many great cities around the world, Elephant Parade is thrilled to make its debut on the south coast of England at Westquay – and, as the UK re-emerges from Covid restrictions, we hope our vibrant art pieces will give people a reason to smile, meet friends and have a great day out at Westquay.”

The elephants will be exhibited in Southampton until June 20.