Oxford-based artist kOrky Paul, the illustrator behind the famous Winnie and Wilbur children’s books, will be painting an ox sculpture as part of a special first-look event for the OxTrail which will take place in a pop up in Westgate Shopping Centre on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 March.

Local shoppers and families will be able to see the highly accredited illustrator at work on the upper level, near John Lewis and Next, between 10am and 4pm.

Amelia Foster, CEO of Sobell House Hospice, said, “OxTrail aims to inspire creativity across Oxfordshire. The viewing gallery in the Westgate Shopping Centre is a fantastic opportunity to give the public a little look behind the scenes at the wonderful art taking place in the run up to the July event.”

OxTrail is Oxford’s first ever Wild in Art sculpture trail, in aid of Sobell House Hospice, and will take over the city from 6 July for 8 weeks.

A herd of uniquely painted ox sculptures will form an art trail around the city for locals and visitors to explore for free. The herd will joined by groups of smaller sculptures painted by local schools and community groups.

Once the trail is over, kOrky Paul’s sculpture will be herded together with the others for a farewell event before the large sculptures are auctioned off to graze in their forever homes. The funds raised from the trail and auction will benefit the life-enhancing care provided by Sobell House Hospice.

Find out more about the event by visiting https://oxtrail2024.co.uk