UWE Bristol supports charity unicorn sculpture trail

Media Relations Team, 27 June 2023

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UWE Bristol's decorated unicorn sculpture at Bristol Aquarium, with artist Chloe Tyler

A herd of unicorns, including one sponsored by UWE Bristol, will be unveiled in selected locations across the city and South West next week to raise money for charity.

The inaugural Unicornfest sculpture trail starts on Saturday 1 July and will see dozens of unicorns on display in prominent locations and landmarks during the nine-week festival.

The event is raising money for Leukaemia Care – the UKs leading leukaemia charity. They offer vital information and support services to patients in Bristol and beyond and The Unicornfest is designed to shine a light on what they do and raise vital funds.

Each unicorn sculpture, which range from mini companion sized unicorns up to 2m high statues, have been decorated by Bristol artists. UWE Bristol’s unicorn, named ‘UWEcorn’, is located at Bristol Aquarium; it has been designed and decorated by UWE Bristol graphic design graduate and illustrator Chloe Tyler.

Chloe’s design includes idyllic and dreamy scenery with a wavy landscape, and trees dotted throughout. Swirling leaves climb the legs of the unicorn, which also features a bold and beautiful large three colour rainbow framed by clouds, and a classic Bristol sight: hot air balloons.

She said: “I’m so excited to see my unicorn in its new home at Bristol Aquarium – it’s very bright and colourful so I hope all the visitors will love it and appreciate its vibrancy as they visit the aquarium and harbourside.”

Like previous iconic sculpture trails in the city, members of the public can pick up or download a map of the unicorns’ locations and try to tick off each to complete the trail.

Katie Jenkins, UWE Bristol Director Future Students and Marketing, said: “We’re delighted to support this magical trail, which I’m sure will not only delight many visitors to Bristol and the South West but also provide vital funds for an important cause.”

The Unicornfest is a part of the 650th anniversary celebrations of Bristol achieving corporate county status in 1155 and seeks to unite the business and creative sectors, as well as local communities and schools across the city and surrounding areas. There is also history between the city and unicorns with the mythical creature featured on the city seal, representing the idea of virtue.

The trail will end in September with a Unicornfest Auction Preview Festival for unicorn fans of all ages to say their final farewells before the unicorns are auctioned off to raise funds for Leukaemia Care.

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