Gorilla Flotilla hits Exeter

Meriel’s globetrotting design was inspired by the idea of the gorilla making stops around the world and collecting stamps of other endangered animals, before finally arriving in Devon ready for the exhibition.  Lady Studholme  chaired the group of judges and announced the winning design in late May.

The design was then painted by local artist Kevin Jones in front of students, staff and visitors at the University in a live environment  so that the design could be witnessed coming to life.

On Saturday 3 August the trail throughout Exeter and the English Riveria officially opens with 30 different gorillas on display throughout the region until the end of October when the gorillas will be auctioned off.

Geoff Pringle, Deputy Chief Operating Officer and Director of Campus Services said: “The Great Gorillas Project is such a innovative campaign and with our interest in conservation and sustainability we were keen to show our support.  Our student community embraced the idea and created some fantastic designs.  We are looking forward to welcoming visitors to the University throughout the summer to meet Takamanda, our globetrotting gorilla. ”

The life-sized gorilla is number 16 on the trail will be located in the Forum on the University’s Streatham campus.

The Great Gorillas project has been designed to help celebrate the 90^th birthday of the region’s largest and best-known zoo, Paignton Zoo Environmental Park, which is a registered charity. It is also raising funds for gorilla conservation and a local community project.

The life-size model gorillas are being sponsored by a range of businesses and community groups and will create a unique art trail around Torbay and Exeter for the summer months.

Paignton Zoo Director of Marketing & Development Pippa Craddock said: “The project is an amazing mix of art, education, conservation and public engagement. The funds raised will be used by Paignton Zoo to support gorilla and conservation projects and a local community project.”