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This summer, Beverly Hills overrunned in the best possible way by a flock of elephant lightning. 100 life-size elephant sculptures are officially resident at Beverly Gardens Park as part of the Great Elephant Immigration, a free public art exhibition and global conservation campaign that runs through Friday, August 1st.
Spanning four blocks along Santa Monica Boulevard from Rodeo Drive to Rexford Drive, the handmade herd marks the grand finale of a 5,000-mile journey across the United States that began on the East Coast. However, these are more than just photogenic pachyderms. Each sculpture was made from invasive lantanas by indigenous artisans of India’s Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve and was modeled after a real elephant known to the community that lives with them.
Recommended: Looking for more free art? Check out our guide to LA’s free museums and free admission days
Their final push West was an iconic convoy that transcended the iconic American landscape, from Yellowstone to Joshua Tree. Along the way, the elephants were serenaded by drummers, escorting the Las Vegas strip (yes, really) and cheering for supporters from Black Feet Nation to Beverly Hills.
Elephants arrive not only as art but as ambassadors. “The great elephant migration is more than an art installation,” said Sharona Nazarian, Mayor of Beverly Hills. “It is a powerful sign of unity and a reminder of our joint responsibility to protect the planet and the wildlife.”
On July 20th, the installation is even more stylish as it is wrapped in history, a global designer-made acquisition of textiles with 70 custom-made blankets. The work is auctioned online, and the proceeds support wildlife coexistence efforts around the world. And for those trying to make magic permanent, the elephants themselves also sell for the $8,000 to $22,000 range.
The grand finale is a public event called “Kiss Them Goodbye” on August 1st. Take a photo, bring a friend, and maybe fall in love with Tasker, but know that this installation is here to move your mind and habitat.
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