Before Zany Zebras_029 - 4 April 2016

Following the success of the public art event Go! Rhinos in the summer of 2013, Marwell Zoo brought Zany Zebras to Southampton in 2016. In preparation for the event, some of the chosen artists decorated their zebras in a shop in the Marlands Shopping Centre in Southampton. It was possible to view the sculptures closely and to chat to the artists. On my second visit, I enjoyed privileged access to the zebras and to the artists, four of whom kindly spent time chatting. It was very stimulating being with such talented and charming people.

The artist for this zebra is jewellery maker Cara Sandys, the creator of Silk Dreamings, who admits that she is working well beyond her usual experience on this commission. Nevertheless, I am sure her design, featuring Southampton's First buses, will be a big success. I am grateful to her for an interesting chat and for posing with her zebra.

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