The Great Elephant Migration has arrived in Beverly Hills, bringing 100 life-sized elephant sculptures to the city’s streets. The art installation spans four blocks along Santa Monica Boulevard from Rodeo Drive to Rexford Drive and will be on display until August 1. The elephants were handcrafted by indigenous artisans from India’s Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve using invasive lantana weed.
Each sculpture is modeled after a real elephant known to the communities who live alongside them. The herd’s journey began on the East Coast and covered 5,000 miles across the United States before reaching its final destination in Beverly Hills. “The Great Elephant Migration is more than an art installation,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Sharona Nazarian.
Elephants parade through Beverly Hills
“It’s a powerful sign of unity and a reminder of our joint responsibility to protect our planet and wildlife.”
The installation aims to raise awareness about the need for human-wildlife coexistence and support conservation efforts worldwide. The elephants themselves are available for purchase, with prices ranging from $8,000 to $22,000.
Proceeds from the sales will fund initiatives that protect biodiversity and promote coexistence between people and wildlife. On July 20, the installation will feature “Wrapped in History,” a textile takeover with 70 bespoke blankets created by global designers. These works will be auctioned online, with the proceeds also supporting wildlife coexistence efforts.
The grand finale of the Great Elephant Migration will be a public farewell event called “Kiss Them Goodbye” on August 1, hosted by luxury beauty brand Chantecaille, one of the project’s key sponsors. Visitors are encouraged to take photos, bring friends, and appreciate the powerful message behind this unique art installation.
