Chelmsford-based artist Jennifer Flint, part of the Artists at the Meadows collective, has brought not one but two vibrant sculptures to Buzz in the City: Busy Bee at Chelmsford College and I Love Bs outside Benefit Cosmetics on New Street. She’s also created a dazzling mini bee for the Buzz in the City prize draw—one lucky winner will take home a truly one-of-a-kind creation.

Why did you take part in Buzz in the City?

“I wanted to take part because I loved the idea of bringing a bold, colourful trail to our home city and bring art into people’s everyday lives. Buzz in the City has transformed Chelmsford into a vibrant outdoor gallery, encouraged people to get active, explore different parts of the city, and connect with art in a really accessible way. The trail has created such a buzz (pun intended!) in the community, and it’s been wonderful to see families, friends, and visitors (from far and wide) visit the city and make memories as they hunt for bees whilst also raising valuable funds for Farleigh.”

How long did it take to decorate your sculptures?

“I didn’t really keep close count as I was having too much fun but I would imagine each sculpture took around 30 hours to complete. There was a lot of planning, sketching, and detail work involved, I wanted each bee to feel like a one-of-a-kind character. The mini bee was also a joy to create I wanted it to be as vibrant and special as possible, so whoever wins it will own a truly unique piece of the trail.”

How did it feel to see your sculptures on display?

“It was surreal and exciting to see my bees in such prominent spots around the city. I’ve had so much positive feedback, from people stopping me to say they loved the designs to parents sharing that their children had chosen my bees as favourites. It’s been amazing to see how art can bring people together and brighten their day.”

Are you excited about the Farewell Event?

“Absolutely! I think it’s going to be magical to see the entire swarm together, a real celebration of creativity and community spirit. It’s a unique opportunity for people to admire every sculpture side by side before they’re auctioned off, and I hope it inspires even more people to get involved and bid for their favourites.”

What does Farleigh Hospice mean to you?

“Farleigh Hospice is such a vital part of our community, I grew up with my mum working at Farleigh and I know how much compassion and support they bring to so many families. Knowing that the sculptures will not only bring joy but also raise much-needed funds for their work makes me incredibly proud. I hope that bidders see these bees as not just beautiful pieces of art but as a way to make a meaningful contribution to an organisation that touches so many lives.”

Don’t miss your chance to see Jennifer’s bees up close at our Farewell Event—and maybe even take one home while supporting Farleigh. 

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The ‘3B’s’ Broomfield Baby Bereavement Group has decorated one of the 25 smaller bees on the trail, which it hopes will raise awareness of the support that it offers to parents and other relatives after a baby has died.

The 3B’s is run by Julie Ellingford (pictured above) and Dianne Hodkinson. It was set up 15 years ago by Julie after her son died and she realised that there was nowhere she could go to talk with other families that have been through a similar experience.

Julie said, “Our baby bereavement group supports people from across Essex. We meet once a month at Broomfield Methodist Church where we have our own room and private peace garden. It’s a relaxed space where bereaved parents, grandparents and other relatives can come to support each other and talk about their loss, if they want to. Dianne and I also talk with our members between meetings, if they need that extra support.”

Julie and Dianne had read about Farleigh’s Buzz in the City art trail, we were delighted when one of the group decided to buy a mini bee for the 3B’s.

Julie said, “We are very pleased to support Farleigh Hospice as it’s a local charity that provides bereavement support to children and adults.

“Designing and decorating our mini bee has been incredible – it has brought our group together in ways that I really didn’t expect. People who might not talk very much at our meetings were happily chatting around the bee!

“We’ve called it ‘Hive of Hearts’ and it is on display in the Meadows Shopping Centre. The body is painted blue and pink, with the names of all of our babies in yellow honeycombs on the wings, along with the words ‘There is no footprint too small that it cannot make an imprint on the world’ and ‘Always loved, never forgotten’.

“We thought it would be just an art project that we could all enjoy but Hive of Hearts means so much more to us. Hopefully, other families who have experienced the loss of a baby will see it on the art trail and contact the 3Bs group if they need support too.”

Amy Ward (pictured), a member of the 3B’s group said, “I have found decorating the bee really therapeutic. Sadly, we lost our baby Finlay quite recently on 2 April. When I heard about this, I thought it was the perfect thing to focus on and get involved with. It’s really relaxing, and we can chat about our babies and catch up and reconnect in a shared experience.

It’s a group that no one wants to be a member of but when you do join you meet some amazing women who have been through so much. We lost a daughter, Amber, in 2013 and I was part of the group then. Then I had my son in 2014 and stepped away from the group as I felt it was difficult to have a baby when I know that other people would be going through a loss at that point. I didn’t want to be back in this situation again but it’s nice to reconnect with everyone, come back and feel like you are doing some good. I will be bringing my 11-year-old son Oscar on the trail.”

There are 30 giant bee sculptures and 25 smaller bees, including the Hive of Hearts, on the Buzz in the City art trail which is open in Chelmsford until 9th September.

For more information, visit the Buzz in the City website.

To find out more about the support available from the Broomfield Baby Bereavement Group, go to www.broomfieldbabybereavement.com

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We spoke with Gregory John, Partner and Head of Private Client at Fisher Jones Greenwood, about what inspired the firm to get involved and what they’re most looking forward to this summer.

“It was a natural fit to be involved with Buzz in the City because it brings together everything we value – positivity, creativity and community spirit – all in aid of a fantastic cause. It’s a celebration of Chelmsford at its best, and we’re proud to be part of it as a headline sponsor.”

Creating a Buzz

As the very first sculpture on the trail, FJG’s bee has a special place in the journey—and the team can’t wait to see the reaction from the public.

“We’re excited to see the buzz unfold, especially when people discover our bee. Ours is the very first sculpture on the trail and we hope it sets the tone for a summer full of colour, connection and creativity. We were even able to work with the artist Marta Zubieta to customise our beautiful bee design. We’ll be keeping an eye on the smiles, selfies and stories shared across social media.”

Supporting Farleigh Hospice

The trail supports the work of Farleigh Hospice—and for FJG, that cause couldn’t be more important.

“Every penny raised helps Farleigh Hospice continue its vital work across our region. They support families through incredibly difficult times, and we’re honoured to play even a small part in that care. Let’s make this summer count for something special.”

What’s Next for FJG?

FJG is heading into a milestone summer—pitching up at the Tendring Show, sponsoring the Billericay 10K and preparing to open its flagship new Colchester head office!

Located at Severalls Business Park, the 6,000 sq ft, three-level space is a major investment in our future. With flexible workspaces, quiet zones, tech-enabled meeting rooms and fully accessible client areas, it’s designed to support modern legal services, staff wellbeing and long-term growth.

Don’t miss a moment! Follow FJG on social media for all their latest summer news and event highlights: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

Thank You, Fisher Jones Greenwood

We’re incredibly grateful to FJG for their generous support and enthusiasm. With their help, Buzz in the City is not only a vibrant celebration of art and community—it’s a powerful way to support hospice care for people across mid Essex.

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The Buzz in the City trail is full of sweet surprises — and one of them is tucked away in Oaklands Park. That’s where you’ll find ‘Hive of Hope’, a beautifully painted bee sculpture by artist Charlie Stafford, sponsored by Manuka Doctor, a leading voice in natural wellness.

We spoke to Claire, PR & Marketing Manager at Manuka Doctor, who explained what sets their honey apart:

“Manuka honey is made by bees who collect nectar from the Mānuka bush, native to New Zealand and only flowers for a few weeks a year. The honey has unique antibacterial and antioxidant properties linked to a range of wellbeing benefits.”

With its rare origins and powerful properties, Manuka honey is prized for its health-supporting qualities — from soothing sore throats to nurturing skin. It’s a fitting connection to Hive of Hope’s message of resilience and care, reflecting how small acts (and small insects!) can make a big difference.

While you’re visiting Hive of Hope, why not continue the trail to our pop-up shop on Chelmsford High Street, where you’ll find local honey and exclusive merchandise — with every penny supporting Farleigh Hospice.

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Get ready to add a little buzz to your weekend shopping! Our Buzz in the City pop-up shop is now open in the heart of Chelmsford, bringing a hive of exclusive merchandise and sweet surprises — all in support of Farleigh Hospice.

Find us at the Full Circle store, Chelmsford High Street

Step inside to discover a range of Buzz in the City goodies, including tote bags, notebooks, pencils, and pens — perfect for trail adventurers of all ages. Plus, we’re proud to stock a selection of delicious local honey, a true taste of Essex’s hardworking pollinators.

Every purchase helps: 100% of profits go to Farleigh Hospice, supporting free specialist care across mid Essex. So whether you’re picking up a keepsake or a gift for a bee-loving friend, your support makes a real difference.

Pop in soon! 

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Maxine at the Museum of Chelmsford tells us:
“The beehive is one of the museum’s most popular exhibits. The bees are able to fly to and from the flowers of Oaklands Park, collecting pollen to bring back to the hive and produce honey. The bees also help to pollinate the plants of Oaklands and the surrounding area. Look out for the Queen bee, who can frequently be seen in the hive.”

Your bee journey continues with the Buzz in the Museum Trail — a fun scavenger hunt featuring bee-themed artifacts hidden throughout the museum. Each one comes with quirky bee facts and a few surprises. Can you find all the ‘worker bee baubles’ tucked around the exhibits?

While you’re there, don’t miss the Diana Mayo (one of our talented Buzz in the City artists!) illustration from 2019, featuring bee artwork by pupils at Tyrrells Infant School — it’s a charming reminder of how Buzz connects communities across generations.

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From 8 August, Oaklands Park will be buzzing with even more to discover! As part of the Buzz in the City trail, this scenic green space—nestled in the grounds of the Museum of Chelmsford—will host not only several of our vibrant bee sculptures but also a brand-new outdoor photography gallery.

A Perfect Trail Stop

Oaklands Park is already home to the stunning ‘Hive of Hope’ bee, designed by artist Charlie Stafford and sponsored by Manuka Doctor. But from August, visitors can enjoy an extra layer of creativity with a special outdoor gallery celebrating the beauty of Chelmsford’s green spaces.

The gallery will showcase the winning entries from the City Parks’ Space to Thrive photography competition. These captivating images will be displayed throughout the gardens, offering a visual journey through the lens of local photographers who captured the essence of nature, community, and wellbeing.

More Than Just a Walk in the Park

Whether you’re following the trail, admiring the artwork, or simply soaking up the summer sun, Oaklands Park is the perfect place to pause and enjoy:

• Beautiful gardens and open green space
• Inspiring photography displays from 8 August
• Buzz in the City bee sculptures, including ‘Hive of Hope’
• A relaxing stop at The Hive Café
• A chance to explore the Museum of Chelmsford

We hope you enjoy your visit!

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Every year on 10 July, Don’t Step On A Bee Day offers more than just a quirky name—it’s a timely reminder of the vital role bees play in our environment, and how urgently they need our protection.

Bees are responsible for pollinating around one third of the food we eat. From apples and strawberries to almonds and tomatoes, many of our everyday favourites rely on these tireless workers. But bee populations are in decline, threatened by habitat loss, pesticides, disease, and climate change.

That’s why this awareness day matters. And here in Chelmsford, it’s especially relevant as we celebrate our own buzzing tribute to pollinators through the Buzz in the City art trail.

Local Beekeepers Share Their Wisdom

To mark the occasion, Chelmsford Bee Keepers, proud supporters of Buzz in the City, have shared five practical ways we can all help protect our local bee populations:

1. Plant for pollinators
   Choose flowers like lavender, cosmos, and hollyhocks. These provide a steady supply of nectar and pollen, giving bees the nutrition they need throughout the seasons.
2. Cut back on chemicals
   Pesticides and insecticides can be deadly to bees. Opt for natural pest control methods and organic gardening practices to keep your garden healthy without harming pollinators.
3. Support local beekeepers
   Buying local honey helps sustain beekeeping in your area. You can find jars of Chelmsford-produced honey at the Full Circle store on the High Street—a sweet way to support both bees and local businesses.
4. Inspire the next generation
   Teaching children about the importance of bees helps build a culture of care and awareness that will benefit future ecosystems.
5. Consider beekeeping
   Whether it’s joining a local group or setting up a hive in your garden, beekeeping is a rewarding way to connect with nature and support biodiversity.

Creating a Bee-Friendly Environment

Even if you’re not ready to don a beekeeper’s suit, there are simple ways to make your outdoor space more welcoming to bees. Leaving small patches of bare ground can help ground-nesting bees, while bee hotels or bundles of hollow stems offer shelter for those that nest above ground.

And don’t forget water—placing a shallow tray filled with pebbles and clean or rainwater gives bees a safe place to drink and rest.

A Buzz Worth Celebrating

As we enjoy the colourful sculptures and community spirit of Buzz in the City, Don’t Step On A Bee Day is a chance to reflect on the real-life pollinators that inspired it all. With a few small changes, we can all help ensure that bees continue to thrive—for our food, our flowers, and our future.

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Based in Chelmsford, Tamara is an emerging artist who specialises in bringing detailed acrylic animal paintings to life and is passionate about inspiring the next generation of creatives. Her bee sculpture, Bee Inside, is a striking piece of anatomical art—both visually captivating and educational—offering a unique glimpse into the intricate inner workings of bees.

“I’ve always had a weird interest in the anatomy of animals—how things work and what they’re for,” Tamara explains. Her bee sculpture celebrates the complex beauty hidden inside these tiny pollinators. Every organ is painted to scale and positioned exactly right—which, as you can imagine, involved meticulous research and accuracy!
“When I researched how the bee’s anatomy worked, it gave me an even greater respect for them—how special and intricate they are. I hope it will educate people on how a bee works and give them a better understanding of how important they are, no matter how small.”

Planning the piece was one of Tamara’s favourite parts of the process. She chose bright, eye-catching colours to make the anatomy feel approachable and engaging.

“I tried not to make the guts look gross! So, I chose bright colours to attract younger viewers,” she says.

That said, bringing the sculpture to life wasn’t without its challenges.

“Getting the massive, heavy bee structure into my house so I could paint it was definitely the hardest part! Thankfully, a lovely guy called David Williams helped me transport it—thank you, Dave!”

And for those exploring the trail, keep your eyes peeled—Tamara has hidden a little surprise in her sculpture.

“I’ve included some bee jokes on one of the honeycomb pieces that the bee is standing on. Enjoy. Teehee.”

Tamara’s involvement with Buzz in the City goes far beyond artistic passion. She was also drawn to the project because of the cause behind it.

“Farleigh Hospice are incredible. I’ve had a few close people I know pass away in hospices, and the love, respect, and care they were shown in their final days is invaluable. Without their charity work and fundraising, they wouldn’t be able to give dying people such incredible care and attention. It was an honour to be part of this initiative, and I wanted my Bee to make them proud.”

A Writtle University graduate, Tamara works at Artists at the Meadows, a gallery in Chelmsford supporting local artists. She helps set up exhibitions, delivers workshops, and finds joy in teaching young creatives to follow their artistic instincts.

“Everyone should paint—it’s such good fun and great for the soul.” For Tamara, creativity isn’t optional:
“I’m so lucky to be around such creative people. Artists at the Meadows is such a great place to work, and being part of a wider family of local artists is so inspiring. I think I need to be creative—I feel weird if I don’t paint.”

What’s next?

Tamara has an exciting art exhibition coming up at Hanningfield Reservoir. You can also explore more of her work at: www.tamaraeden.com.

She’s looking forward to seeing her sculpture on public display, inspiring curiosity and learning.

“It’s going to be amazing seeing my Bee in public and watching people read the labels and learn how incredible and valuable these small creatures are.”

Ready to discover Tamara’s bee for yourself? Keep an eye out for Bee Inside during your Buzz in the City adventure—and don’t forget to look for those hidden bee jokes!

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