Artist Call-Out: Pride of Yorkshire Sculpture Trail 2026

Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity is inviting artists, illustrators and designers to submit designs for Pride of Yorkshire — a major public art trail marking the hospital’s 150th anniversary in 2026.

150 large lion sculptures will be transformed into bold, original works and displayed across South Yorkshire. This is a paid commission (£2,000) with national exposure and the chance to support pioneering children’s healthcare.

Artists can submit up to three concepts. Materials, support and promotion are provided.

Eligibility: This opportunity is open to professional and emerging artists, illustrators, designers, and makers aged 18 and over. Applicants must be based in the UK and able to complete the work within the project timeline. We welcome submissions from individuals or collectives working in 2D or 3D disciplines, particularly those with experience in public art, large-scale painting, or community-focused design. Artists must be able to physically attend the installation site if required and must have the capacity to deliver a finished sculpture by the agreed deadline.

What you get: Selected artists will receive: A £2,000 artist fee (inclusive of VAT and expenses) per commissioned sculpture A full-size, primed GRP lion sculpture for decoration Promotion across local and national press, social media, trail materials, and the Pride of Yorkshire website Exposure to thousands of trail visitors and widespread public visibility Inclusion in the trail map and digital platforms Support with materials guidance, logistics, and installation The opportunity to have work featured in a high-profile public art event and to help raise funds for Sheffield Children’s Hospital Charity.

Deadline 25 July 2025

Apply