Elephant parade raises awareness for endangered species

More than 100 painted baby elephant statues are on display at malls and hotels around Hong Kong as part Elephant Parade, created by the organisation of the same name and brought to Hong Kong by Swire Properties. The exhibit aims to raise awareness for endangered Asian elephants, but also includes branded pachyderms associated with China Citic Bank, Virgin Group, Lesportsac, Diane Von Furstenberg and SCAD Hong Kong (some painted by celebrities not necessarily known for their artistic abilities--see below). Sotheby's will auction about 30 of the statues on 11 September, with proceeds going to the Asian Elephant Foundation. Prior auctions have raised more than US$5.9 million.