Waddle-on-Sea, created by Havens Hospices and Wild in Art, will see over 30 large penguins, along with some small penguins, sponsored by businesses and designed by artists. Huddles of baby penguins will also accompany the sculptures, which will be adopted and decorated by schools, community groups and organisations.
Each unique, individually designed penguin will be part of the spectacular outdoor art trail in the summer of 2025 across the city of Southend-on-Sea before being auctioned off so local families facing complex or incurable conditions can get free specialist care when and where they need it, from Havens Hospices.
The charity, which provides care throughout Essex, is encouraging budding amateur and professional artists to bring their plain penguin sculptures to life for the family-friendly art trail by submitting up to two designs before the deadline of the 31st of October. Following the submissions, the designs will be shortlisted before being chosen by sponsors.
Last year, local artist Neil Fendell was commissioned to create two spectacular sculptures for Herd In The City, ‘Rock ‘n’ Glow’ and ‘Never Forget’. ‘Rock ‘n’ Glow’ depicted an evening scene of Southend-on-Sea’s iconic seafront, using a mix of acrylic pens and spray paints, whilst ‘Never Forget’ was a nostalgic nod to the technology the artist grew up with and how the past is an important part of understanding who you are.
Neil says, “I think art trails are the best art because they engage everybody. It’s such a visible thing, and it’s not elitist – it’s for the public. It’s great to see people of all ages getting involved in the trail and taking photos – it really does make it accessible for all. I loved being a part of the previous trails – Havens Hospices is such an important charity that supports the local community in Essex.”
Artists participating in Waddle-on-Sea will get to make a real difference, bringing economic, social, and cultural benefits to the city. Plus, they’ll gain valuable exposure through their designed penguin sculpture, which will be prominently displayed in the city. It’s also a great way to unite businesses, the creative sector, and the community while helping raise essential funds for local hospice care. The charity’s previous art trails, Hares About Town and Herd In The City, raised over £1 million.
Vanessa Harvey, Waddle-on-Sea Project Manager for Havens Hospices, says, “Unleash your creativity and make a lasting impact by transforming one of our penguins into a fin-tastic masterpiece for Waddle-on-Sea! Whether you’re an amateur or professional artist, this is your chance to showcase your art in a city-wide celebration and support a worthwhile cause.”
Waddle-on-Sea is made possible thanks to Presenting Partner, Ipeco, Official Partners BTMK, Highview, Able Group and Revive Digital, Rickard Luckin as Learning & Community Programme Partner, Atlantic Pacific as Logistics Partner, 6rs as Creative Partner, Main Media as Videography Partner, the Echo as Media Partner, BBC Essex as Radio Partner and with the valued support of Southend-on-Sea City Council.
The deadline for submitting a design is Thursday 31st October. For more information on how artists can create art that leaves a lasting impression on the city of Southend-on-Sea and community, visit www.waddleonsea.co.uk/getinvolved/artists.
Published on 2nd September 2024
