In a blaze of color and creativity, Swindon’s inaugural Big Dog Art Trail has officially wrapped up, leaving a trail of joy, inspiration, and community spirit in its wake. Over the course of seven exciting weeks during the summer, more than 23,000 enthusiastic participants embarked on a remarkable journey, collectively covering an astounding 13,500 miles while amassing a staggering 210,000 Swindog and Swinpup statues as they meandered along the captivating art trail.
The world’s very first balloon dog art trail has not only delighted and captivated the hearts of locals but has also garnered international attention, thanks to its imaginative fusion of art, community engagement, and philanthropy. This extraordinary endeavor was a joint collaboration between Julia’s House, a children’s hospice charity, and Wild in Art, an organization renowned for its innovative art trails.
The art trail featured 72 meticulously crafted fibreglass sculptures strategically positioned throughout Swindon’s parks, tourist attractions, shopping streets, libraries, and community centers. These charming and whimsical sculptures, ranging from the larger Swindogs to the smaller Swinpups, were designed by local and international artists, as well as creative contributions from schools and community groups.
Project manager Chris Hyde expressed his astonishment at the overwhelming response from the public, saying, “We have been blown away by the response from the public to the trail. The Swindogs and Swinpups have brought joy, excitement, and color to Swindon over the summer for locals and also for tourists to the town, many of whom have visited just to see the trail.”
As the sculptures are carefully removed from their pedestals across the borough, there’s one last chance for art enthusiasts and trail devotees to relish their charm. The sculptures will be brought together under one roof for a farewell weekend at the renowned Steam Museum on September 15 and 16. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to pose with their favorite creations, purchase souvenirs, and even try their luck at winning a mini sculpture.
A highlight of the farewell weekend is the chance to enter a raffle for a unique first prize sculpture, lovingly donated and designed by acclaimed artist Robert Mach. This special piece, inspired by Tunnock’s tea cakes and named ‘Running with the Dogs,’ promises to be a cherished keepsake.
Moreover, the art trail’s final chapter will be written at the Steam Museum on September 19, where an auction will take place to find forever homes for these one-of-a-kind artworks. All proceeds from the auction will be directed towards Julia’s House, furthering the charitable mission that inspired this remarkable artistic adventure.