The shortlisted artists for the upcoming Pride of Portsmouth lion art trail have now been announced, marking a major step towards the launch of the colourful public art event later this year.
Following a strong response to an open call, a total of 47 artists have been shortlisted. The selected creatives represent a wide range of styles, disciplines and backgrounds, each bringing their own interpretation and vision to the lion sculptures that will form the trail. Together, the designs celebrate creativity, inclusion and a shared connection to Portsmouth.
The artists were chosen by a selection panel and include both emerging talent and established names. Among those shortlisted are Olana Light, Amy P, Lynne Hollingsworth, Mr Dot, Phillippa and Rachael Corcutt, Gill Prendergast, Roo Abrook, Daisy Barker, Hannah Davies, Ali Elly, Daniel Stubbs, Sticky Tape Kate, Zubieta, Andrea Martin, Courtney-Jo Cotton, Bhavna Mapara, Make at Aldingbourne, Kimberley Nicolle, Emilie-Jane Rivers-Martin, Conor Clements, Kizzi B Creative, Or Misgav, Nicholas Hopper, David Graham, November Tan, SouthseaOceanArtist, Seekers Create, Donna Newman of Eden Designs, Jess Perrin, Caroline Fairbairn and Toad Stoolz, among many others.
Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council said: “This project forms part of the Portsmouth100 celebrations, celebrating Portsmouth’s strong creative community and giving residents and visitors the chance to engage with art that reflects the city’s identity and pride.
“Congratulations to all the artists involved. It’s great to see the range of ways artists have interpreted the brief, and the variety of different styles that will really bring the trail to life across the city this summer.”
All shortlisted designs will be displayed in a free public exhibition at Aspex Portsmouth from Thursday 12 February until Sunday 22 February. The exhibition will give residents and visitors the chance to view the proposed designs up close and celebrate the creativity behind the project.
Following the exhibition, a final selection will be made, with artists commissioned to bring 40 lion sculptures to life for the trail, which is set to appear across the city during the summer.
The exhibition runs throughout the February half-term and is free to attend, making it an ideal opportunity for families to enjoy an accessible and engaging cultural experience while supporting local and regional artists.
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