In collaboration with the Dorset Sunflower Trail at Maiden Castle Farm in Dorchester, Art in Poundbury has announced that Art in the Sunflowers will take place on Saturday, August 9 from 10.30am to 4pm – an earlier date than planned due to crop rotation.
The sunflower trail, organised by the Hoskin family is now in its fifth year and raises money for the Special Baby Care Unit at Dorset County Hospital.
Judy Tate, artistic director of Art in Poundbury said: “It’s very exciting and even the sunflowers have caught us unawares. Anyone is welcome to enter and we have some fabulous prizes up for grabs in all categories. We will also be having a brand new prize, Farmer’s Choice, which will be very delicious.
“We will be supplying art packs throughout the event for children which will be perfect for school holidays. It’s really gearing up to be a great day of painting.”
Last year around 90 artists took to the fields in a fascinating display. Miss Tate said she hopes more will come this year.
She said: “We would love to see more artists this time around on a longer trail. Last year we had 90 artists lost among the sunflowers – you couldn’t see anyone it was fascinating.
“This year, due to crop rotation, we’ll be in a different field but this means there will be better views towards both Dorchester and Poundbury as well as Maiden Castle itself.”
All profits from the event will support the Emergency and Critical Care Appeal as well as Arts in Hospital.
There will be a competition open to all participants with prizes in five categories of; 18+ enthusiasts, 18+ Experienced, senior (ages 14-17), intermediate (ages 10-13) and junior (5-9)
The entry fee for the event is £10 which includes free entry to the trail. For artists under 18, the entry fee is £5 for the trail, with entry to the competition for free.
Judging will be conducted by the ‘Arts in Hospital’ group with all winners announced by August 29.
Art activities and are planned throughout the period to engage with young children on the day.
For more information on the event and how to enter, visit https://artinpoundbury.co.uk/events/art-in-the-sunflowers-2025
