There are two stages to the selection process;

Stage 1: the initial submissions will be shortlisted to around 120 designs. Artists will be notified if their designs have been shortlisted to stage 2 in October 2024.

Stage 2: Sculpture sponsors will attend a Matching Event, where they will select their chosen design to adorn their sculpture.

Successful Artists will be notified following the Matching Event, which will take place in November 2024.

If commissioned, you will be paid! There is an award of £900. Payment will be made on return of the completed sculpture and within 30 days of receipt of your invoice.

Some artists may choose to waiver this fee in support of St Elizabeth Hospice, the beneficiary charity of the Hoptoit! Suffolk 2025 art trail, but this is not an expectation.

The cost of all materials, is your responsibility, with the exception of the varnish. Completed sculpture will be professionally varnish after collection at our partner body spray workshop.

You can paint the hare sculptures in your own home or studio, please note the hare dimensions and allow for sufficient space. We will provide a free public painting space located in Ipswich Town Centre. Should you choose to paint your sculpture in your own home or studio, our volunteer drivers can help with local collection and delivery. Locations further afield, you will be responsible for associated collection and delivery costs, along with insurance. Please speak to our Art Coordinator for further information.

You will need to be available to paint a Hare for a period between, December 2024 and March 2025.

Following the trail event in the summer 2025, the Hare sculptures will be auctioned in September 2025 to raise money for St Elizabeth Hospice.

Full details of the Artist Programme can be found on our Artists Page. Please ensure you read our Artist Terms and Conditions, which can be found in our artist's pack, before submitting a design.