Painted by Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood, the Ashton Gate lion is one of 47 individually curated sculptures launched in locations across the globe, including The Hamptons – New York, Sydney, Wellington and Nairobi.
For more than 30 years, Tusk has helped pioneer an impressive range of successful conservation initiatives across more than 20 countries, increasing vital protection for over 70 million hectares of land and more than 40 different threatened species.
Stephen Lansdown CBE, owner of Bristol Sport, said: “We are proud to be part of the Tusk Lion Trail 2021 and it’s an honour for Ashton Gate Stadium to play its part in the global campaign.
“Each sculpture highlights the magnificence of lions and educates about the threats to their existence – raising awareness for conservation efforts across the world. The population of African lions has declined by as much as 50% in the last 25 years, so the risk to Africa’s unique natural heritage remains more urgent than ever.
“We hope visitors across the West Country come to Ashton Gate to enjoy our iconic lion sculpture and support the work of Tusk.”
As well as Rolling Stones guitarist Wood; Dire Straits bassist, John Illsley; fine art photographer, David Yarrow; artists Jake Chapman, Gavin Turk and David Mach; rugby legend Richie McCaw; American fashion designer Donna Karan, and British actors Mathew Horne, Noel Fielding and John Cleese have all collaborated to craft their own unique pieces of art. Each lion sculpture has been generously sponsored by a Tusk partner or supporter.
More information about the event can be found here: www.tuskliontrail.com
