A sculpture of a sea lion created by a creative group for carers has won the Public Choice award in the 2025 Teignmouth Recycled Art in the Landscape (TRAIL) exhibition.

More than 900 people voted for their favourite sculpture in the annual exhibition on Teignmouth seafront.

The winner, ‘The Sea Lion’ was created to symbolise the bold action needed to protect our oceans. It was created by Make It Thursday, a social and crafting group for caregivers, previous carers and those at risk of isolation.

The Sea Lion ‘delighted the public and encouraged conversations about microplastics, pollution and the urgent need to safeguard marine life,’ said TRAIL coordinator Sam Lock.

The Environmental Award went to ‘Bee Aware’ by Lou and Chris Chapman. Created from recycled materials including a children’s trampoline, scrap fabrics and discarded metal, the sculpture was aimed at raising awareness of the fragile balance of our ecosystems by highlighting the threat posed by invasive Asian hornets to bees and pollinating insects.

Hazeldown Primary School’s recently formed eco-committee was the winner of the Community Award for its vibrant ‘Underwater Biodiversity’ sculpture. With over 30 pupils involved, the project transformed recycled fabrics into a stunning underwater world, complete with coral reefs, fish, and a majestic sea turtle. ‘The collaboration embodied teamwork, creativity, and environmental responsibility,’ commented Sam.

Teignmouth Art Society’s Artist Award was presented to the Outdoors School, Tiverton for its ‘Plasticasaurus’ sculpture. Judges praised its imaginative use of recycled objects and the way it captured attention while carrying a strong environmental narrative.

The TRAIL exhibition of sculptures made from recycled materials has been running through the summer months for nearly two decades. As well as celebrating artists, schools and community groups it promotes important environmental messages.

‘This year’s event brought together hundreds of visitors and supporters, with sculptures made from recycled materials sparking conversations about sustainability, biodiversity, and the power of art to inspire change,’ said Sam.

Organisers extended their sincere thanks sponsors, volunteers and the local community as well as all the participating artists, schools, and community groups for their ingenuity and commitment. From the smallest detail to the largest installations, each artwork reminded us of the importance of protecting our environment and working together creatively for change.

Next summer the exhibition will mark its 20th anniversary and the organisers are already planning special events and exhibitions to celebrate and make it the most memorable TRAIL yet.