Internationally-known cartoon character Shaun the Sheep is coming to Christchurch. Thirty schools have been told they will have a hand in bringing Shaun to life by painting Little Shaun sculptures for the Big Sheep Trail in January. Shaun the Sheep is a British animated character who has starred in several TV series and two feature films – Shaun the Sheep Movie and Shaun the Sheep: Farmageddon. The movies were nominated for Academy Awards in 2015 and 2019. There are also Shaun the Sheep trails in
the United Kingdom. Waitākiri Primary School teacher Sophie O’Rourke said pupils are looking forward to being part of the outdoor sculpture trail again. “We have completed three other sculptures over the years and we love doing them. Not only does it bring our school community together, but it also creates excitement and the children who participate always feel so proud of the sculpture,” she said. Once the trail ends the Shauns will be auctioned off to fundraise for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Christchurch, an
organisation that matches young people with mentors to help them reach their full potential. There is also a call out for artists interested in painting a Big Shaun who will be sponsored by businesses. Big Brothers Big Sisters programme manager Faye Higgins said designs were being sought which “capture the spirit of Shaun the Sheep; adventurous, mischievous, fun-loving, and full of humour”. • Artists and businesses wanting to be part of the project can go to: thebigsheeptrail.nz
Shaun the Sheep, Christchurch, Big Sheep Trail, Little Shaun, Waitākiri Primary School, Sophie O’Rourke, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Christchurch, Faye Higgins, art call-out, thebigsheeptrail.nz