Hundreds of children and their parents met beloved storybook character Elmer the Patchwork Elephant as they helped launch a new sculpture trail.
Elmer’s Art Parade trail, which winds through Petworth House’s pleasure gardens, features ten large sculptures inspired by writer and illustrator David McKee’s original Elmer creation.
Each one has been individually designed, based on the work of artists from across the world including William Morris, Yayoi Kusama, Frida Kahlo and JMW Turner.
The original patchwork Elmer stands inside Petworth’s 18th century stone Rotunda.
During Saturday’s launch, families enjoyed Elmer-themed craft activities, storytelling with pantomime dame Mama G and a meet and greet with Elmer himself.
Mum of one Kelly Tormey from Barnham said: “My son Zachary really enjoys the Elmer books and he was very excited to meet him in person. He loves anything colourful and had great fun matching each Elmer to the numbers on the map and having his picture taken with them all.”
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Katie Stephens from Guildford and her four-year-old Jessica were lucky enough to preview the trail just before it opened.
"Jessica and I thoroughly enjoyed our sneak peek of Petworth Park's Elmer the Elephant trail,” she said.
“She loved looking at all the different designs and colours and guessing their names. They are the perfect size for young kids to hug and enjoy too.
“The trail takes you all around Petworth’s Pleasure Garden but it’s easy walking for little ones and for buggies. Jessica was especially excited to find the Patchwork Elmer up in the Rotunda because she’s a big fan of the books.”
There are more free activities on offer on Thursday, June 1, between 10.30am and 3.30pm.
Sarah Taylor, senior programming and partnerships officer at the National Trust’s Petworth House, said: “Petworth has a longstanding tradition of championing art and creativity and Elmer’s Art Parade is a great reason to visit us this summer.
"The sculptures look magnificent and it’s been wonderful to see children discovering them, learning about the artists and enjoying the crafts, activities and storytelling we’ve arranged to celebrate Elmer’s arrival.”
Elmer’s Art Parade trail is free (normal property admission only, National Trust members free) and is on show until September 3.
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