Students bring creativity to life with Trunks Across the Thames project

Art & Design students at Abingdon & Witney College have combined creativity with community impact by taking part in the Trunks Across the Thames art trail project, a fantastic regional initiative raising funds for Thames Hospice.

Led by the College’s Creative Industries faculty, the project has seen students design and paint a unique ‘baby elephant’ sculpture, featuring as part of the public trail this summer. Launched last week, the wider trail will transform locations across Windsor, Slough and Eton into a vibrant open-air public art trail, showcasing a herd of artist-designed elephants created by professionals, schools and community groups.

The College’s contribution forms part of the trail’s community programme, giving students the opportunity to work on a live, public-facing brief and see their work displayed beyond the classroom. Izzy, a Level 1 Art learner from Witney, has designed and painted our very own Abingdon & Witney College baby elephant, named Oxley, bringing them to life through her design, demonstrating both technical skill and creative flair. Their design was inspired by elephant environments and the animals within them. Izzy incorporated butterflies, colour, and environmental themes to create a personal and successful final design.

Alongside the creative element, the College community has come together to support the project through a range of fundraising activities. Staff and students are working towards a target of £1,300, which will enable Oxley to return to the College after the trail as a lasting legacy of the project. Thanks to generous support so far, the total raised has already reached nearly £900.

Fundraising efforts have already included staff-led events such as a themed disco, as well as wider initiatives across the College, including a Community Day Pub Quiz, helping bring colleagues together while supporting this great cause.

The initiative highlights the College’s commitment to providing students with meaningful, real-world learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom. By taking part in Trunks Across the Thames, students are not only developing their creative practice but also contributing to a wider charitable effort that supports individuals and families across the region.

Mel Coleman-Clements, Head of Faculty for Creative Industries, added:

“Trunks Across the Thames has given our students the chance to be part of something really special. Not only are they creating a unique piece of public art, but they are also helping to raise awareness and support for Thames Hospice. We’re excited to see our elephant become part of the trail and showcase the incredible creativity of our learners.”

Oxley is on display at the Windsor and Eton Taproom for the next nine weeks, alongside other larger-than-life artworks in the art trail. The trail is completely free, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy. Find out more here...

If you would just like to donate to support the cause please donate via this link.