‘Croydon Stands Tall’: 30 giraffe sculptures pop up across borough’s hotspots

As part of an art trail celebrating diversity and creativity, 30 giraffe sculptures have begun their take over of a borough.

As a showcase event for This is Croydon, London Borough of Culture 2023, Croydon Stands Tall has started its transformation of the borough’s town centre into an open-air art gallery.

Eye catching sculptures have been pictured in some of the borough’s hotspots like East Croydon station, Croydon Minster in the Old Town area of Croydon and Crystal Palace’s Selhurst Park football stadium.

On August 21 the giraffes will join a herd of 30 uniquely designed sculptures that will roam the town centre until October 27. 

Jo Brand, comedian and Crisis ambassador, said: “Croydon Stands Tall is a wonderful display of art and creativity from across the borough, and is a great example of how art has the power to bring people together. 

“As the giraffes move in to Croydon, knowing that they will not only bring some fun and excitement to the local community, but that they’ll also raise vital funds for Crisis is brilliant. 

“Crisis works tirelessly to help people leave homelessness behind for good every single day, and all of the money raised will ensure they can continue to provide the crucial support people need.”

The trail has been organised by Croydon Business Improvement District (BID), in collaboration with creative producers Wild in Art.

To end the trail, Croydon will host a special farewell weekend, where all the giraffe sculptures will be displayed together.

Then, Croydon Stands Tall will auctioned off all the large sculptures to raise money for Crisis charity and its Croydon programme, Skylight, which offers vital help with housing, jobs, health, and wellbeing.

Matthew Sims, chief executive of Croydon town centre business improvement district Ltd, said:  “Croydon, a place defined by its people who stand tall at all times, is home to such a rich and diverse culture. 

“The Croydon Stands Tall trail, will bring art and culture to the people enhancing this year’s London Borough of Culture, This is Croydon and creating a vibrant and spectacular experience.” 

Pictured top: Giraffe waits for a train at East Croydon station (Picture: Croydon Stands Tall)