Unicorn sculpture to join Pride of Portsmouth art trail for Portsmouth100
March 20, 2026
A magical new unicorn sculpture will join this year’s Pride of Portsmouth art trail as part of the Portsmouth100 centenary celebrations. The design is inspired by the sea unicorn featured on the historic Portsmouth city crest, reflecting the city’s strong maritime identity.
The unicorn will celebrate the creativity and experiences of local children who take part in HAF Portsmouth (Holiday Activities and Food), a programme that supports young people across the city during school holidays.
Children help design the unicorn sculpture
Local artist Emilie-Jane Rivers-Martin has been commissioned to work with children to create a design featuring a constellation of stars. Each star will represent a child’s voice, imagination, memories and the impact HAF Fun Pompey has had on their lives.
During the Easter HAF programme, children and young people will be invited to take part in a Portsmouth100 Unicorn Design Competition. Every child attending a HAF session this Easter can submit a star design through their provider, ensuring the competition is fully inclusive.
Designs can reflect anything meaningful to them — from favourite activities and new skills they’ve learned, to memorable foods, friendships and experiences from HAF sessions.
Celebrating creativity across the city
Councillor Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said the project celebrates the imagination of young residents and gives them the chance to help shape a key part of this year’s art trail:
“This project shines a light on the creativity of children across the city, giving young people the chance to shape an exciting part of the Pride of Portsmouth art trail while celebrating everything they gain through HAF Portsmouth. It’s a brilliant way to mark Portsmouth100 and showcase the power of community creativity.”
A new highlight of the Pride of Portsmouth trail
Once complete, the unicorn sculpture will take its place alongside the lion sculptures featured on the Pride of Portsmouth art trail, becoming a key attraction in this year’s Portsmouth100 celebrations. The trail will run from 13 July to 13 September 2026.
Visitors will be able to explore sculptures across the city, each created to celebrate Portsmouth’s identity, culture and community spirit.
