Southend artists wanted for Havens 'Waddle-on-Sea' event

Following the achievements of the Herd In The City and Hares About Town events, a new trail named Waddle-on-Sea has been announced for next summer.

In partnership with Wild in Art, the trail, which the Echo is a proud media sponsor for, will arrive in the city next summer, in 2025.

The event will see sculptures of penguins, accompanied by huddles of baby “chick” statues, pop up across Southend.

The larger sculptures will have sponsorship from businesses and will be crafted by talented artists.

Schools, community groups, and organisations will decorate the baby statues.

Organisers are now urging talented artists to come forward and apply to decorate a penguin.

A spokesman for Visit Southend said: “Calling all artists.

“Waddle-on-Sea are seeking talented artists to transform their plain penguin sculptures into beautiful masterpieces for their 2025 art trail.

“Get involved in Waddle-on-Sea and create art which will leave an impression on the community.”

After the event has completed, the penguin art pieces will be auctioned off, with the proceeds going to Fair Havens and Little Havens.

Havens hospices, which supports both Fair Havens and Little Havens, provides specialist care to those with complex or incurable conditions.

Waddle-on-Sea follows in the footsteps of previous art trails in 2021 and 2023, which have raised more than £1million for hospice care.

Matt Dent, the councillor responsible for business, culture, and tourism, shared his excitement about the trail’s return.

He said: “It is fantastic news to have it return.

“The previous events have been incredibly successful and really showcased the artists talent.

“We know we have a lot of talent in Southend, and I would urge all artists to apply, get involved, and help this project.”

Artists interested in this initiative have until October 31, 2024, to apply.

Visit www.visitsouthend.co.uk/waddle-on-sea