‘Tour for Tusks: Drawing Hope for Wildlife’ is a special evening coming to The Common Room in Newcastle in October, focusing on how each of us can help create a better future for wildlife.

The lovely Common Room is the place to be for this event which will unite international conservation and local creativity. Geeta Seshamani and Kartick Satyanarayan, co-founders of India’s leading wildlife charity Wildlife SOS, arrive in Newcastle as part of their UK Tour for Tusks. Drawing on over three decades on the frontlines of animal rescue, they will share remarkable, firsthand stories of rescuing and rehabilitating injured elephants and sloth bears, protecting fragile habitats, and fostering peaceful human-wildlife coexistence. Joined by Newcastle-based artist, educator, and Drawing for the Planet founder Jane Lee McCracken (work pictured), the evening will explore how compassion, art, and education can inspire future generations to protect our planet. The talk will be followed by an interactive Q&A session, giving attendees the opportunity to engage directly with the speakers. A standout highlight of the night is an exclusive screening of ‘My Sweet Paro’, a moving short film offering an intimate tribute to one of Wildlife SOS’s bravest rescued elephants, celebrating her journey through quiet, unhurried moments. Throughout the venue stunning artwork will also be on display, and guests will have the chance to bid on their favourite original pieces during a special charity auction, taking home a unique work of art while directly supporting vital global conservation efforts. GM

Tour for Tusks: Drawing Hope for Wildlife, Friday 9 October, The Common Room, Newcastle. More info and tickets: wildlifesos.org/tour-for-tusks-uk-2026