Tampa, FL – The Outdoor Arts Foundation announced today a large-scale, free-standing, red, white and blue Elephant sculpture that was featured at the 1996 GOP Convention in San Diego will formally be unveiled in the lobby of the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina, this Wednesday at noon. OAF sponsors, artists, local dignitaries and elected officials are expected to be in attendance for the unveiling. The Elephant has been in a private collection in San Diego since the’ 96 Convention and has made the 2,450 mile journey across-Country to attend this year’s Convention in Tampa.
According to Foundation Executive Director Jay Goulde “Acquiring such a storied piece of GOP Convention history was really a coup, we’re very excited to have it on display at the Marriott Waterside for this year’s Convention.”
The Elephant will be featured on a red carpet where Convention attendees and hotel guests will not only have the opportunity to be photographed with it but will also have the opportunity to buy it. A silent auction will be set up throughout the month of August with the high-bidder winning the opportunity to take the historic Elephant home.
In addition to donating the Elephant’s journey from San Diego, Craters & Freighters will also be coordinating the Elephant’s departure from Tampa in early September. According to CEO Diane Gibson “We’re known for being able to ship large and unique items but for something like this that’s so historic, it’s really a privilege to be involved.”
Mike Falconer, Marketing Director for the Marriott Waterside is thrilled to have the piece as well. “Our property is going to be the hub of activity during the Convention, when Jay approached us, it wasn’t a difficult decision to have the Elephant here at the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel and Marina.”
