Artists from across Staffordshire, including those based in Stone, are being invited to apply to take part in The Staffy Trail, a new public art project launching this spring.
The trail will feature ten large-scale Staffordshire Bull Terrier sculptures, each standing around 5ft tall, displayed across Stafford, Stoke-on-Trent, Tamworth and Lichfield from Friday 1 May as part of Staffordshire Day’s tenth anniversary.
Organisers are now looking for artists who can demonstrate experience of large-scale work and enjoy collaborating with young people. Priority will be given to artists who live or work in Staffordshire.
Working with local schools
Successful applicants will be commissioned to work alongside a Staffordshire high school or college to create a unique design for one of the sculptures. Artists will run a full-day workshop with students, using their ideas as the starting point for the final artwork.
The sculptures can be painted at the artist’s own studio, at a Making Trails painting hub, or at the partnered school, which is the preferred option. Finished sculptures will then go on public display for at least ten weeks over the spring and summer.
Locations for the trail include Stafford town centre and Stafford railway station, alongside sites in Stoke-on-Trent, Tamworth and Lichfield, all within easy reach of Stone.
Paid commission and publicity
The role is a paid commission, with artists receiving a fee of £1,250 per completed sculpture. This includes the workshop day, design time, painting, varnishing and materials.
Commissioned artists will also receive publicity through Staffordshire County Council channels, press activity, and the official trail map and app.
The project is being delivered by Making Trails, who have previously worked on similar large-scale public art trails.
How to apply
Artists are not required to submit finished designs at this stage. Instead, applications should include examples of previous large-scale work, portfolio links, a short artist statement and details of any experience working with schools.
The deadline for expressions of interest is Friday 27 February 2026. Selected artists will be notified in early March.
Full details and the application form are available in the official artist brief – https://wearestaffordshire.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Staffy-Trail-Artist-Pack.pdf?x68780 . Applications should be returned by email to tilley@makingtrails.co.uk.
For artists living or working in Stone, the scheme offers the chance to be part of a countywide trail that will be seen by residents and visitors throughout the summer.
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