A charity auction has officially opened for 62 uniquely decorated dolphin sculptures that served as the centerpiece of a summer-long art installation and treasure hunt on the island of Guernsey. The Dolphin Discovery Trail, which launched in May, featured individually crafted models created by local artists and strategically placed throughout streets, beaches, and public spaces across the island.
Local businesses, schools, and community groups sponsored the artistic sculptures as part of a fundraising initiative benefiting Autism Guernsey and the Guernsey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA). The bidding process for these one-of-a-kind decorated dolphins has now begun, with the final auction scheduled to take place on September 17 at the Peninsula Hotel.
Andrew Sparkes, Director of Autism Guernsey, revealed that more than 1,000 people participated in the trail, which he described as having "brought joy, color, and community spirit to Guernsey." He emphasized the community impact of the project, stating, "The Dolphin Discovery Trail has been a wonderful example of Guernsey coming together for a cause, and the upcoming auction is a chance to make a lasting difference while taking home a unique piece of art."
GSPCA manager Steve Byrne expressed his enthusiasm about the community response, calling it "incredible to see." He added, "The Dolphin Discovery Trail has brought so much joy to the island and we're incredibly grateful to everyone who took part, sponsored a dolphin, or helped behind the scenes."
The dolphin-themed trail represents the latest in a series of similar charitable art installations that have become a tradition on the island. Previous events included the Puffin Parade in 2023 and the Golden Guernsey Goat Trail in 2021, demonstrating the community's ongoing commitment to combining public art with charitable fundraising efforts.
