Elephant Family's In Giant Footsteps Launch Party

Elephant Family's In Giant Footsteps Launch Party

Elephant Family’s In Giant Footsteps Launch Party

 

This past spring the Elephant Family suffered a great loss. The charity focused on protecting endangered elephants and preserving their natural habitat lost their fearless commander-in-chief, Mark Shand. He passed away in the most tragic and untimely manner while on a trip to New York City raising funds for the Elephant Family. While his passing was surrounded by sadness, his colleagues at the Elephant Family have vowed to carry his cause forward on his behalf. On the evening of June 5th, 2014, the Elephant Family held a tribute to the late Mark Shand featuring photography, art and an auction hosted by Sotheby’s Chairman Henry Wyndham to raise funds for the charity Mark Shand dedicated his life to. Here and Now 365 was there.

Aptly called the “In Giant Footsteps” launch party, the evening began with a beautiful cocktail hosted by Lanson Champagne. The hour allowed guests to mingle among the elephant-themed art and photography featuring Mr Shand in the field with his beloved pachyderms. The space was divided into themed exhibits focused on different elephant habitats around the world featuring its respective indigenous art. The centrepiece was a large fibreglass elephant guests could leave notes on to Mr Shand sharing their memories, thoughts and condolences.

Elephant Family's In Giant Footsteps Launch Party
As seen on on dailymail.co.uk

 

After a few moving words by several members of the Elephant Family, the auctioneer Mr Wyndham kicked off the auction for the art patrons had the opportunity to browse through earlier. Mr Shand and Mr Wyndham were dear lifelong friends and the jovial mood Mr Wyndham set for the auction reflected Mr Shand’s light-hearted nature and passion for his elephants.

Mark Shand and his sister, the Duchess of Cornwall (BBC)
Mark Shand and his sister, the Duchess of Cornwall (BBC)

 

The evening was a resounding success both in terms of raising funds for elephant habitat conservation and paying tribute to a great man who made these gentle giants his life’s work.

Elephant Family's In Giant Footsteps Launch Party

 

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