Applications to decorate the impressive unicorn sculptures for Bristol’s next public art trail are now open

It's to raise awareness and funds for Leukaemia Care UK.

Giant sculptures of Shaun the sheep as they stand before Brunel's Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol, to launch a new public arts trail, to raise money for sick children
Author: Iona Stewart-RichardsonPublished 15th Oct 2022

Applications to decorate the impressive unicorn sculptures for Bristol’s next public art trail are now open.

Artists are being encouraged to join the likes of famous Bristol artists, Inkie and Jenny Urquhart to submit up to two imaginative design ideas by 1st December 2022.

This is an excellent opportunity for regional artists to build recognition, whilst bringing a smile to the faces of all who behold the enchanting figurines next summer.

Set to become the city’s next magical trail, Unicornfest will see a giant herd of unicorn statues descend across Bristol from 1st July to 3rd September 2023. This fantastic initiative is part of an effort to raise awareness and funds for Leukaemia Care UK, and will form a key part of the 650th anniversary of Bristol celebrations. Unicornfest is also the perfect occasion to recognise Bristol’s creativity and unique heritage with unicorns through the wonderful artwork and storytelling about the city.

West Country artists are being encouraged to be as creative as possible with their designs; anything ranging from attractive mosaics to intricately painted scenes are welcome. With a nod to Bristol heritage inevitably being well received. Submissions will be shortlisted at the beginning of next year and put into a Unicorn Artists Portfolio for sponsors to opt for their favourite design. After the matchmaking is complete in February, commissioned artists and sponsors will have the opportunity to collaborate on finalising their designs.

Joining the main herd are a mini herd of adorable 1-metre-tall unicorn foals. These are exclusively available to schools who are invited to pledge a minimum of £750 for Leukaemia Care in order to secure their very own foal. Having teamed up with educational partner Bridging Histories, Unicornfest education packs have been devised for any school, college, nursery or university committing to the Unicorn project.

Once the high profile, nine-week trail comes to an end, the mystical beasts will be rounded up and groomed to perfection for the Unicornfest Auction Preview Festival in late September. This will be followed by the charity auction in aid of Leukaemia Care the first week of October, a chance to bid farewell to the unicorns as they trot off to their new homes in time for Christmas.

So, whether you are a budding artist wanting to submit a design, education centre or a Bristol based company keen to sponsor this fantastic programme, you can register your interest via the website.

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