Over the summer, Chelmsford has been buzzing with colour and creativity. From July through early September, families have been spotting giant and mini bee sculptures dotted across the city as part of the Buzz in the City art trail. These cheerful bees have brightened up streets and parks, encouraged little legs to explore new corners of Chelmsford, and raised smiles wherever they landed.
Now, as the trail comes to a close, there’s one last chance to see every single bee gathered together in one magical display. On Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 September, all of the sculptures – both the towering giants and the smaller mini bees – will take centre stage at a special Farewell Event in the gardens of Farleigh Hospice, Broomfield.
A trail with heart
The art trail has been more than just a fun summer activity. Each giant bee has been individually designed by a talented artist to help raise money for Farleigh Hospice, the much-loved local charity providing free care and support for people with life-limiting illnesses and their families across mid Essex. Farleigh also offers vital bereavement support to children and adults.
Local artist Jennifer Flint, who created two of the giant sculptures (‘Busy Bee’ at Chelmsford College and ‘I Love Bs’ outside Benefit Cosmetics on New Street), says the project has been about more than art:
“Buzz in the City has encouraged people to get active, explore different parts of the city, and connect with art in a really accessible way, whilst also raising valuable funds for Farleigh. I think it’s going to be magical to see the entire swarm together – a real celebration of creativity and community spirit.”
Jennifer has even designed a special mini bee, which one lucky person can win in the Buzz in the City prize draw.
What to expect at the Farewell Event
The Farewell Event promises to be a joyful day out for the whole family. Visitors will be able to:
- Admire every bee sculpture side by side – a rare sight before they head to auction.
- Collect any missing codes on the Buzz in the City mobile app to complete challenges and claim rewards.
- Meet members of the Chelmsford Beekeepers and learn more about real bees.
- Browse bee-themed goodies and enjoy refreshments.
- Pick up prize draw tickets for the chance to win Jennifer Flint’s colourful mini bee.
Tickets cost £2.50 per person (under 5s go free), with free parking available at the hospice. Entry is by timed ticket only, which can be booked in advance at www.buzzinthecity.co.uk/farewell.
The auction
Once the farewell weekend is over, the giant bees will be auctioned on Tuesday 17 September at 7pm at the Channels Estate, Chelmsford. Hosted by TV antiques expert James Lewis of Bamfords Auctioneers, the event will give art lovers the chance to take home one of these stunning creations – while raising even more money for Farleigh Hospice.
If you’d like to register for the auction, visit www.buzzinthecity.co.uk/auction or call 01245 457411.
Don’t miss it!
Whether you’ve spotted just one bee on your summer strolls or have been busy tracking down all of them with your family, this is your last chance to see the entire swarm in one place. The Buzz in the City Farewell Event is set to be a heart-warming weekend of art, community and, of course, plenty of buzzing bees.
