Renowned artist kOrky Paul, based in Oxford, is set to bring his much-anticipated artistic flair to the city’s upcoming summer OxTrail at the Westgate Shopping Centre next month.

Widely known as the illustrator of the beloved Winnie and Wilbur children’s books, Paul will showcase his talent by painting an ox during a special ‘first-look’ event scheduled for Saturday, March 2nd, and Sunday, March 3rd.

Local shoppers and families will have the unique opportunity to witness the acclaimed illustrator at work on the upper level of the Westgate Shopping Centre, near John Lewis and Next, from 10 am to 4 pm.

OxTrail, Oxford’s inaugural art sculpture trail in support of Sobell House Hospice, is slated to transform the city from July 6th, 2024, for an eight-week duration. Earlier this month, a herd of 135 oxen, varying in size, was delivered to Oxford Brookes University Harcourt Hill Campus with assistance from RAF Brize Norton. The RAF team facilitated the unloading and preparation of the oxen for further transportation, while logistics partner Darcica ensured their safe delivery to participating artists for decoration.

As part of this year’s OxTrail learning program, Oxford Brookes University will host a special event this week for participants to collect their oxen.

In December, artist David Melling unveiled the first painted ox, named ‘Orox,’ at the Westgate Shopping Centre. Orox is currently on display at Sobell House Hospice until the official trail launch in July.

Amelia Foster, CEO of Sobell House Hospice Charity, expressed excitement about OxTrail’s aim to foster creativity across Oxfordshire. The viewing gallery at Westgate offers the public a glimpse behind the scenes of the remarkable artistry leading up to the main event in July.

In a significant display of support from local businesses, Westgate Shopping Centre generously provided space to showcase a sneak peek of the life-size ox sculptures that will feature in OxTrail. The exhibition space celebrates the exceptional talent involved in the project.

OxTrail is a collaboration with Wild in Art, known for bringing streets to life with installations in cities worldwide, including Manchester, Sydney, Cape Town, and São Paulo.

Following the trail’s conclusion, kOrky Paul’s life-sized ox, along with others, will be auctioned off to find their forever homes, with proceeds contributing to the vital care services offered by Sobell House Hospice.

For further details on OxTrail, please head here.