The first look at Snooks has been revealed in York today at a sponsorship event at Middletons Hotel. The 6ft sculpture will be the subject of an 8-week trail across York city centre from February to April 2024. There will be 25 Snooks to find in York’s cobbled streets and hidden gardens in next year’s free trail.
The Snooks, designed by Yorkshire artist Sian Ellis, will be sponsored by businesses who will be paired with artists across the UK to decorate their individual Snooks. Artists across the UK have until 23rd of June to submit their designs under the theme of Yorkshire authors.
Sarah Loftus, Managing Director at Make It York, said: “We’re so pleased to finally be able to reveal the Snook! A brand-new character to 2024, there will be 25 of them to find next year in a trail throughout York. It's great to see how much excitement there is around this trail, and we can't wait to see how our artists will decorate these 6ft Snooks and make each one unique and a true celebration of Yorkshire literature."
Dawn Clements, Director of Income Generation at St Leonard’s Hospice, said: “The trail will be a fun way to help us engage further with our community, not only educating people about our services but also helping to raise vital funds to support people facing life-limiting illnesses and bereavement. We are proud to be partnering with Make It York to represent hospice care in such a unique way and we are also looking forward to working with new supporters and volunteers."
Sian Ellis, artist of Snooks with Books, said: “I hope everyone shares my excitement in meeting the very first Snooks and seeing these friendly faces on the streets of York in 2024. I cannot wait to see the different personalities that each of the Snooks are given once they are paired up with their artist and sponsors. I am absolutely itching to pick up my paintbrush and bring a Snook to life, for the first time painting a sculpture that already feels like an old friend.”
Have your say: Riverside path project takes next steps