Renowned Jersey artist, Jason Martin recently swapped his canvas for a gorilla’s bottom as the Beresford Street Kitchen (BSK) crew painted their Go Wild miniature gorilla.
Harlequin Jambo, BSK’s miniature gorilla, was donated by Investec as part of its sponsorship for Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust’s ‘Go Wild Gorilla Trail’. The BSK crew and volunteers had a busy few weeks in a pop-up art studio above the BSK café decorating the statue.
Lending his paintbrush to the cause, Jason visited the ‘BSK Art Studio’ to add his signature style to Harlequin Jambo’s bright design. Painting the diamond on the gorilla’s bottom, Jason added the finishing touch.
Jason wasn’t the only one to pick up the paint. BSK is all about inclusion and painting their gorilla has been a collaborative effort with the crew and volunteers all getting involved. Exploring their artistic side, every member of the BSK crew painted their own diamond, adding their unique touch, to the harlequin-style design.
Georgie Dodd, Fundraising Manager for BSK said, “We’re so grateful to Investec for sponsoring Harlequin Jambo, and for all of their support in this and other projects. Growing up in Jersey, Durrell and Jersey Zoo hold a special place in your heart, and everyone at BSK loves animals so, we have all embraced this project. Harlequin Jambo is incredibly bright and colourful. He really showcases the different personalities of everyone at BSK. Hopefully, everyone who sees him will smile. That’s our aim; to spread happiness.”
It took the BSK crew nearly three weeks to finish painting Harlequin Jambo, with members using their work breaks to get creative. Georgie’s husband, Jason Dodd prepared the gorilla for the team’s painting sessions, overseeing the entire project.
Brendan Stewart from Investec commented, “It’s been fantastic to support BSK and help them spread their message in a whole new way. Harlequin Jambo really encapsulates what BSK do and the difference they make. Everyone is excited to see all of the finished gorillas side by side. It’s certainly going to be a feast for the eyes.”
Harlequin Jambo will join the shop window trail, while Investec’s gorilla, Kong of the Savannah will climb onto the main Go Wild Gorilla trail later this month. Anyone who spots Kong of the Savannah can use the Go Wild Gorilla App to claim a free hot drink, or “jungle juice” for kids, at BSK.
