Charlie Stafford, from Maldon, is one of the talented artists who has designed and painted a giant bee sculpture for the Buzz in the City art trail. She explains the inspiration behind her design and why she is delighted to support Farleigh Hospice.
“I have a BA (Hons) in Art and the Environment from Writtle University College and work as an artist and illustrator, as well as giving lectures and theatre talks. I’ve created about 10 sculptures for art trails in England and Scotland which have raised £22,800 for multiple charities.
I’m quite quick when it comes to painting, so it usually takes me from four days to about a week to decorate a sculpture with my design. I am very focused, giving 100% into creating something beautiful, and so I feel like I’ve put a piece of my soul into each one.
Buzz in the City is my first bee sculpture trail. My bee is called ‘Hive of Hope’ and it’s a bright, colourful and happy celebration of life and nature. There are seven butterflies in the design to reflect life’s fragility and beauty. When someone has passed on and you see a butterfly, it’s sometimes seen as a symbol that a loved one is looking out for you. They’re so delicate, but they’re so amazing at the same time and represent that fleeting moment really well.
My design also reflects the strength, love and togetherness of families and is a tribute to my husband’s grandpa, Tim South, who was cared for by Farleigh Hospice.
I first met my husband, Ollie, about six months after Tim died, but I feel like I know Tim as his family always talks about him. He was very poorly and they speak very highly about the excellent care that he was given by Farleigh.
Tim was the director of Tideway Dinghies, so I have hidden a picture of a little sail boat in my design as a tribute to him. I’m hoping our family can come and see it on the art trail.
I live in Maldon, so it’s great to be part of a local art trail that’s so close to where I live. I’ve actually been painting the sculpture at Farleigh Hospice, which has been a unique experience. It’s a really beautiful, peaceful place and the people there are very friendly and caring.
One of the reasons that I take part in sculpture trails is that art brings joy and happiness, so I believe it should be free and available to everyone of all ages.
I have had some lovely reactions and positive comments about my sculpture as I’ve been painting it. I will be really excited when Buzz in the City opens on Saturday 5 July and my bee is revealed to the public.
I feel very emotional about my Buzz in the City bee. I’m delighted to be able to support Farleigh Hospice and do something positive for my local community in memory of Tim. It’s one of my favourite art trail sculptures.”