OxTrail artist hopes charity oxen statues will encourage young creatives  

An artist behind one of the oxen on display at the OxTrail fundraiser in support of Sobell House Hospice is encouraging young designers to be creative and enjoy their artwork.

Julien Masson was tasked with designing life-sized ox sculpture Dynamic flOX on behalf of Oxford Bus Company. It is one of the 138 oxen which are now on display across the county until 29th August.  

The sculptures will then go under the hammer with all proceeds pledged to Sobell House Hospice and its work providing specialist palliative care.

Born in France but now exhibiting his work internationally, Julien's enthusiasm for art was inspired from his youth and experiences of different countries and cultures.

After designing Oxford Bus Company's statue, Julien provided some tips and insights for young, aspiring, artists. 

"Determination, focus and taking every opportunity available to express yourself are all important", said Julien. "Also have fun– that’s most important of all

"Being an artist is about creativity, and I always try to be creative in everything I do.

"Ensuring my work can help people present their messages or research to a wider audience is key, and this design for OxTrail 2024 represented a great opportunity. The team at Oxford Bus Company has really embraced the project which has helped promote not only art in the community but the great work of Sobell House Hospice too.

"I've loved seeing pictures of Dynamic flOX out and about in Oxfordshire and have no doubt the campaign will raise plenty of important funds in support of a great local cause."

Already, the statue has been spotted on the city's streets outside Radcliffe Camera, in Westgate Shopping Centre and pitch side at Oxford City FC for the club's pre-season friendly with Oxford United.

Luke Marion, managing director of Oxford Bus Company, added: "We're very proud to support this year's OxTrail which has generated a lot of public interest in the county. 

"The campaign supports a cause which will be close to the hearts of many of our customers and colleagues and we've enjoyed people sharing their snaps of the life-size and mini-oxen out and about.

"With schools now enjoying their summer breaks, we've printed trail maps, which can be collected from our Visitor Information Point on Oxford’s High Street, so families can be at an advantage when trying to spot the life-size figures."

Sobell House, part of the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, provides specialist care to individuals and families in Oxfordshire facing life-threatening illness, death, and bereavement.

The charity offers support to around 3,000 patients a year, enriching their lives and ensuring access to quality end-of-life care for everyone in Oxfordshire. Further information is available online via www.oxtrail2024.co.uk.

Oxford Bus Company is part of the Oxford Bus Group, a portfolio of operating companies owned by the Go-Ahead Group which also consists of Thames Travel, Carousel Buses, Pulhams and City Sightseeing Oxford.

Photo: Oxford BMW Mini Plant.