The wait is finally over, after months of waiting our sculpture has finally been revealed! Giant snails are coming to Brighton and Hove.
Superstar DJ and local business owner, Norman Cook (AKA Fatboy Slim), took to the stage at Theatre Royal, Brighton, today to reveal the identity of the next public art installation to be hosted across the city by Martlets. Three giant snails, two uniquely decorated by artists, were unveiled before an invited audience of businesses, artists, and community groups. Snailspace is the much-anticipated follow up to the hugely successful Snowdogs by the Sea. Snowdogs raised £310,000 for Martlets and contributed in excess of £10m to the local economy.
A host of giant snails will sneak their way onto the streets of Brighton and Hove next year. Each one uniquely decorated by a different artist. Businesses across the city and beyond are invited to sponsor their own sculpture before the installation goes live for the public in the autumn.
Speaking about Snailspace and why giant snails have been chosen to follow on from the hugely popular, Snowdogs, Imelda Glackin, CEO Martlets said:
“The snail sculpture resonates wonderfully with the work we do at Martlets. Our life-changing hospice care helps people do the things they love with the time they have. In this fast-paced city it’s often hard to remember to slow down and appreciate the things in life that make us smile. The strikingly painted snails across our city will be a constant reminder to take a moment to enjoy the time we have with the people we share our lives with.
The snail also carries its home wherever it goes. It’s a comforting reminder that being home or feeling at home is incredibly important to the patients and families we help and support.”
Charlie Langhorne, Director of Wild in Art explained why a snail was his sculpture of choice for the city:
“Love them or hate them, everyone will be talking about Snails! Brighton is a quirky, creative city and needed an unexpected sculpture to follow the Snowdogs. #BeMoreSnail is a motto we’re sure Brighton will embrace.”
Despite the identity of the sculpture being a closely guarded secret until today, many businesses, such as Brighton Marina, British Airways i360, Griffith Smith Farrington Webb LLP, Salt Rooms and Visit Brighton have already pledged their support.
Celebrity ambassador and Snowdog sponsor, Norman Cook (AKA Fatboy Slim) had no hesitation in getting involved with the next campaign:
“I was delighted to be asked by Martlets to be a sponsor and ambassador for Snailspace. As many people know I have a personal connection to the hospice and am always happy to support their fundraising events as they provide an amazing service for our community. But, I’m especially keen to be involved in another art event as I can honestly say that for my kids, especially my daughter Nellie, having a Snowdog, was the coolest thing I’ve ever done!”
To keep up with the latest Snailspace news find us on social media: @snailspacebh and follow the hashtag #BeMoreSnail.
Find out more:
- #BeMoreSnailDay success across Brighton and Hove
- Snails go under the hammer at final Snailspace event
- Find out more about Wild in Art
Published 12/10/2017