We are so excited to introduce our latest fundraising project, the Hares of Hampshire!
if you have been in and around Winchester over the past month or so you may have spotted some unusual activity. Lots of people took to social media to share photos of a giant white hare that popped up in a few locations around the city.
We can now reveal that this is just one of many 6ft Hare sculptures that will be hopping through Hampshire for a spectacular public art trail in the Summer of 2022.
For ten weeks, Winchester streets, parks and public spaces will be brought to life with an exhibition of magnificent hares. Each giant sculpture will be individually designed and beautifully created, showcasing the wealth of artistic talent the county has to offer – while positively contributing to the economic, cultural and social life of the area.
This will be the biggest art event that Winchester has ever seen, creating a free, fun, family-friendly trail of discovery for everyone to enjoy whilst exploring our great city. This is an opportunity for locals and visitors to be inspired, get creative and celebrate the history and culture of Winchester.
“On May the 3rd 2009, the day that would have marked Ella-Jayne’s first birthday, I was filled with a grief that I could not shake. I got on my bike and went for a cycle to try and clear my head and in a nearby field I spotted a young Hare, a leveret. I got off my bike, climbed over the fence and walked slowly towards it. It didn’t move, just calmly locked its gaze on me. As we stood staring at each other I was filled with the most euphoric happiness, suddenly everything that had happened in the last 12 months slotted into place….. New beginnings are often disguised as painful endings, Ella-Jayne would live on through the charity we founded in her memory. The Murray Parish Trust.” Sarah Parish
“Hares are a poignant symbol of the continuation of life, positivity and regeneration. Sarah and I felt they are an apt symbol for both The Murray Parish Trust and Winchester, as it comes alive again after the pandemic. We can’t wait to see a drove of hare sculptures bringing new life and optimism to the city’s streets in Summer 2022.” Jim Murray
Hares of Hampshire, is a Wild in Art event which will see the ‘larger than life’ brightly painted statues pop up at thirty separate locations from Monday 16th June until Sunday 4th September 2022. After which their will be a ‘Farewell’ event where all the Hares can be viewed together and there will be a chance to bid on each one in our charity Auction!
We are delighted that communications compancy BECG have hopped on board as Hares of Hampshire Sponsors. They have been involved in the creative design for the project and have supported The Murray Parish Trust for many years.
Stephen Pomeroy, CEO of BECG said, “When asked to support this unique and interactive project we jumped at the chance to be involved. I have been so impressed and proud with how our teams have embraced this project and worked alongside the fantastic team at The Murray Parish Trust to bring it to life.”
Hares of Hampshire is also supported by Winchester BID (Business Improvement District) a not-for-profit organisation led by the businesses of Winchester.
“This spectacular trail is an exciting addition to the wide range of festivals and events held annually in Winchester. It will deliver significant economic, social and cultural impacts to the city whilst benefiting local businesses . We look forward to seeing local artists engaging in the design process; more visitors coming to our beautiful city and a boost of civic pride for local residents. We are delighted to be able to support this exciting new initiative”
Sarah Davis, Business improvement District Manager, Winchester BID
To learn more about this extraordinary event hop on over to www.haresofhampshire.co.uk where you will find information on our sponsorship packages, learner programme, and opportunities for artists.
Follow the Hares of Hampshire on Facebook, Twitter & Instagram at: @hareshampshire #HaresofHampshire
