If you’ve ever strolled through Hermann Park and thought to yourself, “this place is magical,” well, hold on to your sunhat—because it’s about to get even more unforgettable. What began on April 1st, Hermann Park will host The Great Elephant Migration, a jaw-dropping installation of 100 life-sized, hand-crafted Indian elephants that promises to bring beauty, meaning, and a powerful conservation message to the heart of our city.
Yes, we said life-sized elephants—and they’re absolutely fabulous.
This globally-celebrated traveling art exhibit, presented as part of Hermann Park Conservancy’s Art in the Park initiative, is making its Texas debut after stylish stops in NYC’s Meatpacking District, chic coastal Newport, and the art-soaked sands of Miami Beach. Now, Houston is up next—and our city is getting the biggest tusker of them all: Matt, a ten-foot tall, six-ton tribute to one of Africa’s most legendary elephants.
A Parade of Purpose
These aren’t your ordinary garden sculptures. Every elephant is a one-of-a-kind piece, lovingly crafted by The Real Elephant Collective—an inspiring community of Indigenous artisans from Southern India. Made from Lantana camara, a fast-spreading invasive plant, the sculptures transform ecological threat into environmental art. It’s a celebration of both creativity and coexistence.
The fact that these elephants are handmade by real communities who actually live among wild elephants—and know each one by name and personality—makes it all the more special. From the mighty tuskers to the sweetest little calves, this herd is here with a message: wildlife and humanity can share this world in harmony.
Matriarch Energy
In true elephant style, this entire initiative is led by a powerful herd of women. “The Matriarchy”—a dream team of influential women across philanthropy, fashion, and environmental causes—includes iconic names like Cher, Diane von Furstenberg, Susan Sarandon, and Kristin Davis, among others. They’re lending their voices and vision to amplify the message of peaceful coexistence, all wrapped in art, culture, and sustainability.
Where to See the Herd
The majority of these majestic sculptures—including Matt—will take up residence in The Commons, Hermann Park’s newest, most breathtaking destination. But you’ll also spot smaller herds popping up nearby at the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Texas Medical Center. Expect interactive installations, art-driven activities, and photo ops galore (because of course we need the perfect Instagram moment with a baby elephant, right?).
Art Meets Conservation
There’s something innately stylish about this migration—it’s artful, intentional, and deeply rooted in purpose. And in true sustainable fashion, the materials are ethically sourced and the mission is pure: raise millions for conservation projects across the globe, including efforts right here in Houston to manage invasive plant species and protect our green spaces.
You can even bring one of these beauties home (yes, really!). The elephants are available for adoption, with proceeds going to organizations like Save the Elephants, Lion Guardians, and our very own Hermann Park Conservancy.
So mark your calendars and bring your walking shoes—and maybe a fabulous wide-brim hat while you’re at it. Whether you’re drawn by the craftsmanship, the message, or the sheer majesty of a hundred elephants in the park, this is one spring moment in Houston you do not want to miss.
To learn more about the migration and upcoming events, visit hermannpark.org/elephants or thegreatelephantmigration.org.
See you among the herd, Houston!
