The first three sculptures for the spectacular Hoodwinked art trail have been unveiled. The trail planned for Nottingham next summer celebrates the legend of Robin Hood – but with a mischievous twist on the tale. The sculptures transform our merry man in green into appealing robins – birds of a feather who will flock together across the city with a little help from business sponsors.
The first sculpture to be revealed is a robin in traditional Robin Hood costume painted by Manchester artist Jodie Silverman, who has created designs for sculpture trails up and down the country.
The second is ‘Independence: A celebration of India and Pakistan,’ designed and painted by Nottingham artist Hannah Money. Hannah’s work has been influenced by the traditional arts, fashion and architecture she discovered while travelling in Asia.
The third sculpture is blank – ready to be transformed with an imaginative eye-catching design commissioned by a business sponsor. Designs could be in any art form – for example traditional or new media, fine art to illustrations, street art and mosaic.
The free public art trail will run through Nottingham from 
July to September 2018, bringing together businesses, schools and the community to boost the economic, social and cultural life of the city. Each sculpture will be sponsored by a business. Ultimately the trail will raise awareness and funds for Nottinghamshire Hospice, with an auction of the sculptures in October 2018.
The Hoodwinked trail is a modern-day take on the traditional tales of our iconic outlaw, with Robin outwitting the Sheriff of Nottingham with skills of camouflage and cunning. Scores of decorated robins will all be in plain sight but masquerading in coats of many colours, each unique and created by an artist.
The cheeky robin captures the playful spirit of Robin Hood and also holds a particular significance in supporting the work of the Hoodwinked charity partner, Nottinghamshire Hospice, as it symbolises hope after the passing of a loved one.
Councillor Dave Trimble, Nottingham City Council Portfolio Holder for Leisure and Culture, said: “Hoodwinked will be the big event of next summer, a celebration of Robin Hood as we have never seen him before. The sculptures will be a fantastic canvas for Nottingham’s huge artistic talent as well as being a great boost for business, attracting thousands of visitors and encouraging residents to explore their own city. Schools will also have the chance to join in with their own creative projects while taking a fresh look at Robin Hood and his exploits.”
Hoodwinked is led by Nottingham City Council in partnership with Wild in Art, a leading creative producer of spectacular free public art events through the creation of uniquely-painted sculptures.
Wild in Art trails have a massive impact. For instance, the Great North Snowdogs in the north east attracted 676,000 visitors and brought £16.55million into the region, while raising £367,500 for charity.
Nottingham businesses are being encouraged to sign up to sponsor a sculpture in celebration of our local legend and inspire their customers and employees to enjoy Nottingham’s creativity. There are also opportunities to support schools to join in with Hoodwinked through their own creative projects. More information is available from Caroline Elmhirst or Julie Walker at hoodwinked@nottinghamcity.gov.uk or on 0115 8764984/5.