TALENTED artists are being urged to come forward and transform penguins into unique pieces of art ahead of a exciting event in Southend.

Waddle-on-Sea, an art trail created by Havens Hospices and Wild in Art, will feature more than 30 large penguin sculptures, sponsored by businesses and designed by artists.

The unique trail, backed by the Echo, will also see huddles of smaller, baby penguin sculptures accompanying their larger counterparts.

These small figures will be adopted and decorated by schools, community organisations and groups, rather than artists.

Every individually designed penguin will form a part of an eye-catching outdoor art trail spanning the city of Southend in the summer of 2025.

After the exhibit, each penguin will be auctioned off to support families at Havens hospices with complex or incurable conditions.

Proceeds from the auction will go towards providing free specialist care at the charity.

Neil Fendell, a local artist who has taken part previously, said: “I think art trails are the best art because they engage everybody.

“It is such a visible thing, and it is not elitist – it’s for the public.

“I loved being a part of the previous trails - Havens Hospices is such an important charity that supports the local community in Essex.”

The charity, which renders care services throughout Essex, is calling on amateur and professional artists alike to submit up to two designs to bring the plain penguin sculptures to life for the family-friendly art trail.

The deadline for design submissions is October 31, after which, submissions will be evaluated and shortlisted, before final designs are selected by sponsors.

Artists participating in Waddle-on-Sea have a real opportunity to make a difference, contributing economic, social, and cultural benefits to the city.

Vanessa Harvey, Waddle-on-Sea project manager for Havens Hospices, said: “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.”

Artists willing to create lasting imprints on the city can submit their design by October 31.

Visit www.waddleonsea.co.uk/getinvolved/artists.