Local artist Niamh Connolly-Joyce was born and grew up in Leigh-On-Sea. She has always had a fascination with art in all forms, including music, photography, make-up and fashion. A highlight was appearing on Blue Peter to showcase her make-up artistry. She has been inspired by previous art trails in Southend to submit her own design.
Niamh’s intricate design has been shining down the coastline, at Southend’s Pier Entrance, for many to take pictures with it and share online. She is thrilled about witnessing her penguin in public and encourages everyone in Southend-on-Sea to keep an eye out for her creation, adding, “If you spot it, please take a selfie or picture and share it with me @niamhsmakeupbreakup — it would mean the world to me!”
The inspiration for this particular design is David Bowie – an icon of Fashion, music and make-up. This design hoped to ignite many memories throughout the ages and David Bowie himself was an advocate for many charities. David Bowie, like Havens Hospices, has had a positive impact on man
The penguin ‘Pengowie’ is wearing a space suit from Space Oddity so … “Put on your red shoes and Let’s Dance … or Waddle”!
Local radio station BBC Essex fell in love with Niamh’s design and chose it as their sponsored sculpture, they said, “Waddle-on-Sea is such a wonderful initiative, and one that will help to fund the vital work Havens Hospices provide. We are enormously proud to be part of this in 2025 and excited to bring every aspect to the listeners of Essex. Our presenters have been looking forward to family days out in Southend finding the penguins!”
There is still time to follow the huddle and take part in the Waddle-on-Sea trail until 3rd September by purchasing a map from any Havens Hospices charity shop (while stocks last), or from other locations including the Pier Information Centre, The Forum, Leigh-on-Sea Library, and the Waddle-on-Sea HQs at The Royals Shopping Centre and 141 Leigh Road.
The trail can also be followed using the free Waddle-on-Sea app, available on the App Store and Google Play.
For more information, visit www.waddleonsea.co.uk or follow @waddleonsea on Instagram and Facebook.
Published on 22nd August 2025
