call for visual artists to decorate public art

In summer 2026, the borough of Dartford will be transformed by a trail of over 30 beautifully designed large Bear sculptures, created by local and national artists, to raise vital funds for ellenor. Standing alongside them, an additional 30 Bear Cubs, decorated by schools and community groups, will complete this epic trail. Families, visitors, and adventurers will follow the trail using a printed map or our interactive Bear Hunt app, discovering each unique Bear on the area’s streets, parks, and public spaces.

The sculpture trail is a unique way for artists to showcase their work to a mass audience. This is an amazing opportunity for you to play a significant part in an exciting and popular event, which is supported by exceptional media coverage, both online and offline, and is your chance to connect with other artists, businesses, and the wider community. The trail will promote the importance of creativity and its real value socially, culturally and economically – introducing new businesses to the arts, creating new commissions and developing new audiences to enjoy and explore art in Dartford. The trail will be supported by a learning programme, enabling thousands of local children and young people to participate in this highly visible, family-friendly event.