Exciting News: 🐧 Cracking the Penguin Code in Southend!
It’s official—my sculpture titled “Can You Crack the Penguin Code?” has joined the flipper-tastic ranks of the Waddle-on-Sea art trail in Southend-on-Sea, and I couldn’t be more excited! From now until September 3rd, it’ll be standing proud alongside a colony of creative penguins, each with its own splash of personality and imagination.
I have been working on this behind the scenes for months and frequent followers on Facebook and Instagram will have caught glimpses of my sculpture which I can now fully reveal!
A huge thank you to Southend-on-Sea City Council, my wonderful sponsor, for backing this joyful project and bringing my sculpture to life. Their support has made it possible for the penguin code (I’ve affectionately nicknamed him ‘Percy’) to take its place on the trail and be part of a city-wide celebration of creativity, curiosity, and community. You can even spot him featured on their homepage, alongside Cllr Matt Dent, who’s championing the event.
🐾 A Trail of Clues and Curiosity
Percy isn’t just standing around looking dapper—he’s inviting you to solve a snowy mystery. His design includes:
- 🐟 A trail of fish to follow and crack the hidden message
- 🍋 A quirky lemon juggler (always need lemons with fish!)
- 👣 Baby penguin footprints dotted through the scene (so THAT’S who is doing those!)
- 🏨 The charming little “Pengu-Inn” (a place to huddle!)
- 🦭 A friendly seal companion (loving the ball!)
Every detail celebrates teamwork and curiosity, encouraging trail-goers of all ages to look closer, laugh louder, and solve together.
🎨 A Bit About Me
I’m Gina, an illustrator who creates designs inspired by nature, technology, and everyday wonder. My artwork often explores themes of wellbeing, connection, and a touch of playful charm.
The official Waddle-on-Sea site features a lovely artist bio about my work and the inspirations behind Percy, which I’m so proud to be part of.
🗺️ Get Involved in the Waddle
Want to join the penguin parade? There are plenty of ways to explore – You will find us in:
- 📱 Download the Waddle-on-Sea app to track sculptures and uncover their stories
- 📖 Dive into the activity book—full of games, puzzles, and penguin facts
- 🗺️ Grab a trail map and head into Southend for a full-on flipper fest
You’ll find links to all these on my webpage, which also showcases more relatable projects you will love —each one designed to delight, connect, and surprise.
💙 Penguins with Purpose
This trail is raising funds for Havens Hospices, supporting families with specialist care when they need it most. It’s creativity with heart, bringing colour to the streets and compassion to the community.
So whether you’re on a summer stroll or a penguin mission, I hope you’ll visit Can You Crack the Penguin Code?, snap a photo, and maybe even solve the puzzle. Let’s celebrate Southend’s penguin party—one curious clue at a time. 🐧✨
I hope you get a chance to visit and enjoy all the fantastic sculptures on display!
