Thirty Big Bears, thirty Bear Cubs: Dartford to become a summer gallery in 2026.

Thirty life-sized bears on all fours - along with thirty smaller cubs - will take over Dartford next summer, each one a blank canvas to be transformed by artists, schools and community groups.

This is Dartford, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt - a public art trail inspired by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury’s beloved children’s book of adventure and discovery. For eight weeks in the summer of 2026, the town will become an open-air gallery, inviting families, day-trippers and art lovers to follow a trail of large sculptures.

At its heart is ellenor, the Kent hospice charity supporting children and adults with life-limiting illness.

“This trail is a unique opportunity for artists to see their work showcased across the Borough of Dartford, enjoyed by thousands of visitors. Just as importantly, every bear will help raise vital funds for ellenor, supporting families living with life-limiting illness. By taking part, artists will be creating something that is both celebrated and life-changing.” -  Sue Piper, Director of Income Generation, ellenor.

Each artist chosen will receive a £1,000 commission, access to a communal painting space in Dartford, and the opportunity to have their work enjoyed by thousands of visitors. But this trail is about more than art. Dartford, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is a celebration of creativity, community and care. Every bear will help share ellenor’s story, bringing colour, joy and reflection to the town. At the end of summer 2026, the sculptures will be auctioned to raise funds for ellenor, supporting families facing life-limiting illness and giving each design a lasting legacy of compassion.

Key dates for artists:

·       Submissions open: 17 September – 21 November 2025

·       Selection event: 4 February 2026

·       Painting period: March – May 2026 (communal studio available)

·       Trail launch: July 2026

Artists can submit up to two designs at dartfordbearhunt.co.uk.