This summer, MINI Plant Oxford is proud to support OxTrail 2024, an exhilarating Oxfordshire initiative organized by the local Sobell House Hospice to raise crucial funds for their commendable work.
OxTrail 2024 will feature a series of uniquely designed Ox sculptures placed throughout Oxfordshire. Each sculpture has been individually crafted by either an artist or a local school. Post-design, the expert associates at MINI Plant Oxford meticulously hand-sprayed the sculptures with a glossy, protective clear coat, ensuring a flawless finish and long-lasting durability.
From July 6th to August 29th, the OxTrail sculptures will be displayed around Oxfordshire, inviting visitors to enjoy the artistic endeavor. Following the display period, each sculpture will be auctioned off, with all proceeds supporting the invaluable services provided by Sobell House Hospice.
Sobell House Hospice specializes in palliative care for individuals facing life-threatening illnesses, death, and bereavement, caring for approximately 3,000 people annually. Their mission is to enhance the lives of patients and their families during challenging times.
Dr. Markus Grüneisl, Plant Director of Plants Oxford and Swindon, expressed his enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We’re thrilled to have lent our paint shop services to the OxTrail. This brilliant initiative helps raise vital funds for Sobell House Hospice, and it’s been great to see the MINI team spirit in full flow as our associates have supported the project.”
Going above and beyond, the associates at MINI Plant Oxford have created their own distinctive Ox sculpture for the trail. They selected Ocean Wave Green as the base color, with the hooves, tail, and horns painted in iconic MINI colors, including Sunnyside Yellow and British Racing Green.
Michael Lambe, Paint Shop Process Engineer responsible for clear coating the Oxen, explained, “The lacquering process is quite unique. Compared to the MINI, with its flowing lines and classic look, the oxen are a whole different animal! Using our ‘ox-pertise,’ we’ve been able to apply a coat that really makes their artistic design shine.”
Artists from around the county have contributed their talents to the OxTrail, including Oxfordshire-based children’s illustrator Korky Paul, known for the Winnie the Witch books, and local artist and rapper Rawz, who worked on the production line at Plant Oxford in 2006.
Beth Marsh, Director of Fundraising at Sobell House Hospice, remarked, “The partnership we have developed between Sobell House Hospice and MINI Plant Oxford is one that strengthens our connections to the wider Oxford community. We’re extremely excited to unveil OxTrail 2024, with this initiative enabling us to ultimately reach more patients.”
Since its inception in 1976, Sobell House Hospice has been a cornerstone of the community. Plant Oxford is honored to contribute its services to Sobell House Hospice and OxTrail 2024, supporting an initiative that brings art, community, and charity together for a noble cause.
