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This summer, giant tortoises are taking over Jersey in an extraordinary, free public art trail across the island's wild places, coastal vistas and urban hangouts.
The funds generated from the 'Tortoise Takeover' sculptures – which have been sponsored by local businesses and will be actioned off at the end of the trail – will be used to build a new amphibian and reptile house at Jersey Zoo.
Supporting the 'Tortoise Takeover' initiative as its official media partner, Express is getting behind the scenes of the trail to bring you a comprehensive guide of all 50 of the giant tortoises and the inspiration behind each sculpture's bespoke artwork.
Find out more about the the next five tortoises in the trail here...
About the tortoise: 'Shelltastic' is a stunning example of the power of colour, texture, and form. With vibrant shades of blues, pinks, and metallic gold, along with glitter, paint splatter and textures, 'Shelltastic' is a true feast for the senses. The sculpture serves as a symbol of the varied and wonderful creatures that inhabit our planet, reminding us that every layer of creativity has value, and when combined, it creates a harmonious and beautiful masterpiece.
Artist: MrASingh
About the artist: MrASingh is a multi-award winning artist, content creator, public speaker and digital consultant from Birmingham. He produces colourful sculptures for public art trails around the UK and creates vibrant intricate ink art which are sold all over the world. MrASingh has a global fan base and his work has been featured in over 40 exhibitions including The Wallace Collection London, Trafalgar Square and in San Francisco. MrASingh is an active advocate for the arts and culture, as well as inspiring the next generation.
Location: Le Mare
Sponsor: JTC
About the tortoise: 'Stained Glass Companion' was inspired by colourful and intricate stained glass windows. In a similar vein to tortoise shells, these windows feature beautiful and distinctive designs, whilst protecting what is housed beneath them. Many stained glass windows have stood the test of time, which may not be the case for many incredible and endangered tortoise species.
Artist: Katie Gurren
About the artist: Katie Gurren has spent the most of her life in Jersey. She always struggled with reading and writing as a child, so art became her escape. When she was in school, she would often take her sketchbook out into the playground, and the smaller kids would come over and watch her draw things for them. Every day after school, she would draw for hours.
Location: Havre Des Pas
Sponsor: Stonehage Fleming
About the tortoise: 'Stay Gold' is a celebration of the tortoise in all its wonder, featuring a graphic interpretation of the signature pattern of a shell. The bold monochrome pattern has been complemented by a gold body, celebrating the animal's survival through adversity.
Artist: Abi Overland
About the artist: Abi specialises in drawing aggressively detailed images of natural and organic matter creating surreal and other worldly landscapes to get lost in. Her aim is to create a range of eye-catching and uniquely illustrated collections filled with curiosity and wonder that stand the test of time.
Location: La Colomberie
Sponsor: Investec
About the tortoise: 'Terrace Tortoise' is inspired by the beautiful views around Jersey, especially Gorey pier, the harbour, and the castle. The body of the tortoise is the sea with a few sail boats to show the keen sailing community. The shell of the tortoise is the island showing the same wonderful view all around.
Artist: Jill Busby
About the artist: Jill is an artist with a varied career, spanning graphic design and running an Art Club for children. She now enjoys painting for Wild in Art projects.
Location: St. Brelade's Garden
Sponsor: Equiom (Jersey) Ltd
About the tortoise: 'Terry' likes to keep cosy and warm in his favourite turtleneck jumper. The cable-knit creation features traditional knitting patterns and is a nod to the first knitted garments originally produced in Jersey. The bright and colourful design has been painted with detailed knitted stitching. 'Terry' has been created by artist Donna Newman of Eden Designs Murals.
Artist: Donna Newman
About the artist: She works with schools across the Midlands to transform their learning environments with her vibrant artwork. She brings colour and life through her playful designs.
Location: Les Jardins de la Mer
Sponsor: Cazenove Capital
Pick up a copy of the July edition of Connect Magazine for your FREE official Tortoise Takeover trail guide or check out the digital edition below...
Express is proud to be the media partner for this year's Tortoise Takeover. Sign up to our daily news email for all the latest updates.
MEET THE TORTOISES #1: A berry good shell-ection of sculptures
MEET THE TORTOISES #2: Strike a cosmic connection with a p'tit pal
MEET THE TORTOISES #3: Dodo you like to explore? From Eden to Eco Ninjas...
MEET THE TORTOISES #4: My tortoise family and other sculptures
MEET THE TORTOISES #5: Keep going, as the trail keeps growing
MEET THE TORTOISES #6: Will you be the 'lucky one' as the trail continues?
MEET THE TORTOISES #7: Good enough to eat?!
MEET THE TORTOISES #8: Live slow...die old?
This article was put together with the help of Sadie Taylor, who was on Trident Work Experience with Bailiwick Express.
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