Stretching from Bristol’s City Centre and throughout the wider region, dozens of sculpture locations will play host to Aardman’s popular characters from the 30th of June – 31st of August, to raise vital funds for the Grand Appeal – the Bristol Children’s Hospital Charity.
Gromit Unleashed 3 celebrates Aardman’s new film, ‘Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl’ which is coming to the BBC and Netflix this winter. With a cinematic theme, the sculpture trail looks to bring the wonder of cinema, film, stories and legends to Bristol.
Each sculpture is designed by film studios, film directors, celebrities and local artists. One such artists is the botanical artist and print maker Hannah McVicar.
Bristol based, McVicar is known for her vibrant screen prints and botanical illustrations for books, magazines and packaging, working for clients such as The Times, the RHS, Gardens Illustrated magazine and Ebury Publishing.
True to her intricate style, McVicar has painted Nick Park’s Academy Award®-winning character Gromit – named, ‘The Secret Keeper’ with joyous plants and flowers, inspired by the film The Secret Garden. Sponsored by the Peer Group PLC, McVicar’s Gromit will be situated in St Mary Centre Thornbury, which is just north of Bristol.
“I am so excited to share my Gromit, ‘The Secret Keeper’ for Gromit Unleashed 3. Inspired by the film ‘The Secret Garden’ and sponsored by Peer Group PLC. Thornbury is where I grew up!! It’s also down the road from @jekkasherbfarm. We have an event planned on Saturday 12th July, 10.30am to 1pm, in Thornbury to raise money for the @thegrandappeal. I can’t wait for you all to see the Gromit in Thornbury this summer”, said McVicar.
Previous sculpture trials (Gromit Unleashed, Shaun in the City, and Gromit Unleashed) collectively generated over £20 million for the charity.
An exhibition with all 53 sculptures will be held throughout September, ending with an auction in October.
McVicar added “If you would like to buy him, there will be an auction in October with all proceeds going to the Bristol Children’s Hospital. I have my fingers crossed there will also be a mini version available later in the year.”
