Hares About Town ‘Sunrise’

• Subject: Hare sculpture
• Medium: Acrylic
• Completion Date: February 5, 2021
• Completion Time: 1 month
• Dimensions: 61cm X 193cm
• Background: Blue and turquoise

My commissioned hare design named ‘Sunrise‘ was sponsored by Sunrise of Southend Borough Council. Sunrise was one of 30 giant hare sculptures each designed by an artist, which formed the Hares About Town art trail in and around Southend-on-Sea during the summer of 2021, from July 1st until the 12th of September. There were also 50 leverets designed by schools and community groups on display in various venues.

Hares About Town was a spectacular free, family-friendly public art event in partnership with Wild in Art which entertained, delighted and lifted people’s spirits. This project brought together businesses, schools, community groups and artists to raise money for hospice care. The legacy of Hares About Town will live on for years to come as the sculptures were auctioned during a special event at The Boundary, Garon Park to raise vital funds for Havens Hospices, an Essex charity that runs hospice services for all ages.

Sunrise hopped off to meet his new owner after selling for £6,100. The auction alone raised £225,391 making the overall total of money raised through the Hares About Town project a magnificent £447,000. During this event a tribute was paid to local artist Paul Karslake who sadly passed away last year. Paul’s hare, Lemporum Fisher, raised an incredible £20,481 and was jointly purchased by 15 bidders to secure the hare for the hospice. Lemporum Fisher now has a permanent home in the entrance at Fair Havens Hospice in Prittlewell.

I am extemely proud to have been part of this wonderful and inspiring event.