Why Owls?

Date published: 26 May 2023

Since 2008, Wild in Art has worked with various charities to animate cities across the UK and further afield with public art events and trails. Connecting businesses, artists and communities, the trails have featured a range of different themes and characters, from Morph to balloon dogs.

Now, a parliament of owls are set to swoop into Chichester in summer 2024 for The Big Hoot with Chestnut Tree House children’s hospice. But why did the charity decide to bring owls to the city?

As well as providing a wonderful 3D canvas for artists submitting designs for the trail, the owl also represents a very special part of Chestnut Tree House – the Woodland Walk. This fully accessible outdoor space gives children at the hospice the opportunity to spend time in the great outdoors and be part of nature, whether that’s enjoying fresh air or hunting for woodland creatures.

Amanda Fadero, CEO at Chestnut Tree House:

“When it came to choosing a theme for the trail, we wanted something that resonated with Chestnut Tree House and our families,”

“We know how much everyone loves the Woodland Walk at the hospice, so a woodland animal or bird felt like the perfect choice. Coupled with this, one of our families recently told us that they felt our care team had taken them under their wing, which made the decision for us – a woodland bird, an owl.”

Parents often describe Chestnut Tree House as a home-from-home and the team as an extended family – taking them under their wing and helping them navigate their journey.

“The hospice came at a time when we were at our lowest. They took us under their wing, and they nurtured us back to some kind of strength. They enabled us to be able to say goodbye to Rupert, and I think that was life-changing for us.”

Chestnut Tree House mum

The Big Hoot was unveiled to supporters and prospective sponsors on 24 May at Pallant House Gallery in Chichester. The owls will be landing in Chichester in July 2024 and the trail will run throughout the summer.