Call for Artists: TRAIL Sculpture Trail 2025
Artist Brief
TRAIL invites artists and community groups to submit proposals for the 2025 Site-Specific Sculpture Trail along the breathtaking South Devon Coast in Teignmouth. Now in its 19th year, TRAIL transforms this area of outstanding natural beauty—and a vibrant holiday destination—into an open-air gallery of thought-provoking, environmentally focused art. Sculptures will be installed within flowerbeds maintained by Teignbridge District Council, offering an inspiring setting for public engagement.
2025 Theme: Biodiversity Loss
This year’s theme confronts one of the most pressing environmental crises of our time—biodiversity loss. Submissions are encouraged to explore any aspect of this issue, including:
- Causes of Biodiversity Loss:
Climate change, habitat destruction, pollution, invasive species, overexploitation, urban sprawl, and unsustainable water use. - Effects of Biodiversity Loss:
Ecosystem instability, increased disease transmission, food insecurity, and the loss of vital natural resources. - Global Perspective:
Many scientists believe we are in the midst of a sixth mass extinction—how can art capture and challenge this reality?
While this theme is suggested, TRAIL welcomes all submissions that highlight other environmental concerns.
For further inspiration, please visit past TRAIL exhibitions at www.trailart.co.uk.
Key Dates
- Proposal Submissions Open: March 1, 2025
- Submission Deadline: June 15, 2025 (midnight)
- Sculpture Installations: July 10–13, 2025 (by appointment)
- Sculpture Trail Live: July 14 – September 27, 2025
- Award Ceremony: Saturday, September 27, 2025, 2 PM at TAAG Arts & Community Centre
Awards
Award categories will be announced closer to the event. All prizes are subject to sponsor contributions. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our local businesses and sponsors for their continued support.
Design Brief & Conditions
- Sustainability:
- At least 70% of the sculpture materials must be recycled.
- Works should celebrate biodiversity and the natural world or address environmental concerns such as climate change, pollution, and conservation.
- Artists are encouraged to incorporate or respond to the natural elements of the coastal environment.
- Durability & Safety:
- Sculptures will be displayed outdoors and must be robust and weatherproof.
- All works must be free from sharp edges or loose components that could pose risks to the public.
- Sculptures should be securely fixed in place using ‘met posts’ (fence post fixings) or another approved method in consultation with TRAIL and Teignbridge District Council.
- Insurance:
- TRAIL provides Public Liability Insurance; however, artists are responsible for material insurance.
- Proof of personal public liability insurance is required.
- Maintenance:
- The artist (or a representative) must be available throughout the exhibition to address any necessary repairs.
- Sales & Commission:
- There is no submission fee; however, a 10% commission will be applied to any sales.
- Selection Process:
- The selection committee’s decision is final.
- Meetings will be held monthly from March onward, and available spaces may be allocated before the final deadline.
How to Apply
Please submit your proposals by email or post as soon as possible. Your submission should include:
- Visuals: Drawings or photographs of the proposed sculpture.
- Fixing Details: Information regarding the method of installation.
- Dimensions: Clear size specifications (height, width, and depth).
- Materials: A list of construction materials and their sources.
- Concept Statement: A brief description of your inspiration and how your work relates to the theme.
- Portfolio Samples: Images or a website link (for new exhibitors).
- Contact Details: Your name, address, telephone number, and email address.
- Information Template: Successful applicants will receive a template to be exhibited alongside their work, to be returned by July 5, 2025.
- Media Updates: Selected artists must provide progress images or videos for use in website and social media promotions.
Submission Details
Email: trailartuk@gmail.com
Postal Address:
Sam Lock
3 Hermosa Gardens
Teignmouth, Devon
TQ14 9JY
For location requests or further inquiries, please contact us at your earliest convenience.
We look forward to your innovative and inspiring contributions as we celebrate art and environmental awareness on the South Devon Coast.