Disabled artist Alison Lapper will be among those designing a sculpture of Shaun the Sheep for an upcoming art trail.

The Goring-based article and disability awareness campaigner was announced as one of 40 artists taking part in the art installation this autumn at an event this morning.

The event will see more than 40 sculptures of Shaun the Sheep put on display across Brighton and Hove in the city’s streets, parks and other open spaces.

Born with a limb deficiency that resulted in no arms and shortened legs, Ms Lapper has overcome adversity and established herself as a leading figure in the art world.

She gained international recognition in 2005 when a statue of her, titled Alison Lapper Pregnant, was displayed on the fourth plinth of Trafalgar Square. The statue sparked a national conversation about disability awareness and challenged perceptions of beauty.

The Argus: Alison Lapper next to one of the sculptures of Shaun the SheepAlison Lapper next to one of the sculptures of Shaun the Sheep (Image: Martlets)

Ms Lapper said: “By taking part in the Shaun by the Sea art trail, I really hope to bring a bit of glitter and sparkle to everyone’s day.

“Working with the team at Martlets - who have touched so many local families’ lives through their hospice care - I really think this is a wonderful way to celebrate the privilege that is life.”

The “Shaun by the Sea” art trail will run from September 9 to November 5 and aims to raise funds for hospice charity Martlets.


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The sculptures will be auctioned off at the end of the installation, helping to fund projects for the charity, including plans to build a new hospice at their site in Wayfield Avenue in Hove.

The Argus: More than 40 sculptures of Shaun the Sheep will be put on display across the cityMore than 40 sculptures of Shaun the Sheep will be put on display across the city (Image: Martlets)

Martlets CEO Claire Irving said: “We’re so happy the news is out. Alison is joining an already impressive roster of artists for this year’s trail.

“We’re excited for the local business that chooses to seize this opportunity and be part of the #BrightonFlock with Martlets.

“At Martlets, we’re currently rebuilding our hospice in Hove to transform access to vital hospice care across our community.

“Every supporter of Shaun by the Sea will be helping to ensure that Martlets can continue to provide care and comfort from our newly-remodelled hospice.”