Why painted lighthouses are popping up all over Southampton

Southampton and Cowes will soon be aglow with a free family-friendly art trail.

Decorated lighthouses are being put in place around the streets of both ahead of Light the South, which aims to shine a light on and raise money for Southampton Children’s Hospital and gets underway next month.

The public art trail, which will be launched on Saturday, July 13, features 40 lighthouses, each standing 8ft tall, crafted by a selection of top local and renowned artists.

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There are also 40 smaller sculptures called Little Lights, designed by local schools and community groups.

Ellis Banfield, Southampton Hospitals Charity Chief Executive, said: “We’re thrilled to be launching Light the South next month. As well as creating a brilliant adventure for families, this spectacular trail will help Southampton Hospitals Charity raise vital funds for our Children’s Hospital, one of the top three paediatric centres across the country.”

The free walking trail, in partnership with global public art producer Wild in Art and presented by Red Funnel, will guide visitors through some of Southampton and Cowes’ most well-loved and historic landmarks and streets and will shine a light on art and culture in the two locations.

(Image: Light The South)

As well as encouraging local residents to re-discover the city they love, the art spectacle is expected to attract thousands of visitors from outside the area, providing a welcome boost for local businesses.

It's set to illuminate the streets throughout the school summer holidays until Sunday September 1

There will then be a farewell event with all the lighthouses and little lights in one place at the Southampton International Boat Show before they are auctioned off at a special event to raise charity funds.

It's the first ever art trail for Southampton Hospitals Charity in partnership with Wild in Art, an organisation which has previously hosted trails in cities across the UK and worldwide, raising £23.6 million for charitable causes.

The charity brings people together to raise life-changing funds for University Hospital Southampton – the South Coast’s leading healthcare provider. From specialist services to pioneering research, supporters enhance care, experience and outcomes for thousands of patients every year.

Visit lightthesouth.co.uk