Towns and villages across Kirklees have been brought to life by 31 dazzlingly decorated Snowdog sculptures and 36 ‘pups’, creating a spectacular public art trail for Kirklees residents and visitors to enjoy.
Kirklees Council have supported The Kirkwood to bring ‘Snowdogs’ and their pups to the district for eight weeks throughout September and October by joining other local partners and businesses in sponsoring this exciting trail.
The Council sponsored Snowdogs can be found at locations across Kirklees with giant snowdogs located at Dewsbury Railway Station, and St.George’s Square and Kirklees College in Huddersfield. With Snowdog pups being homed at Holmfirth, Denby Dale and Birstall libraries, Huddersfield Art Gallery and Tolson Museum.
All Snowdogs have been uniquely designed and thoughtfully created by regional and national artists with Council Snowdogs dedicated to volunteers (Cheers to Volunteers) Pride (Rainbow Rover) and Kirklees’ textile heritage (Two Tone Textile Till). Snowdog pup designs have been created by local school children including All Hallows CE (VA) Primary, Reinwood Junior School and Skelmanthorpe Academy with an eclectic mix of names including Ruff Ruff, Sugar Rush and Rawry.
Organised by The Kirkwood, in partnership with Wild in Art and Snowdog Enterprises Ltd, Snowdogs Support Life, Kirklees is inspired by the much-loved animated film, The Snowman™ and The Snowdog, the sequel to Raymond Briggs’ classic picture book and film The Snowman™ which is celebrating ten years since it was first broadcast on Channel 4 this year.
This free extraordinary public art trail brings the magic of The Snowdog character to life through sculptures that celebrate the rich history and shared culture of Kirklees. The trail will encourage locals and visitors to rediscover and spend time in their towns and villages that have so much to offer.
Snowdogs Support Life, Kirklees is also a chance for The Kirkwood to engage with the local community as they seek to raise awareness about the many ways they support people affected by any life limiting illness, helping to improve their quality of life in the ways that matter most.
Councillor Will Simpson, Cabinet Member for Culture and Greener Kirklees, said:
“I’m delighted that we have been able to support The Kirkwood in bringing the Snowdogs Support Life art trail to Kirklees. Our designs were carefully chosen representing the district’s heritage and diversity, as well as a thank you to volunteers for the incredible work they did in our communities and with the council to support people throughout the pandemic.
“The art trail and supporting community events are a great way for our community to come together to celebrate public arts and shine a light on our local towns and villages, whilst raising vital funds that will help to provide Kirklees residents affected by life limiting illness with the care and support they need.”
Money raised from the initiative will help to support The Kirkwood, who provide vital care across Kirklees for people affected by life limiting illness, every step of the way.
For more information on the Snowdogs Art Trail and events visit www.snowdogskirklees.org.uk