COPC set to take its place in Pride of Portsmouth trail

This summer, the streets of Portsmouth will roar with civic pride as a spectacular art trail of lion statues adorns the city – and City of Portsmouth College will be a part of it!

As part of the College’s ongoing partnership with local creative organisations, art and design students are currently in the process of designing their entries for the COPC’s very own lion, which will form a part of the Pride of Portsmouth Lion Trail, a flagship event within the Portsmouth 100 celebrations taking place through July and August.

Our lion, which will be unveiled later this year, will be one of several lining the streets, with locals and tourists able to follow the trail via a map and app, unlock rewards, and discover new parts of the city.

Orla Crean, Curriculum Manager Visual Arts & Media, said: “We’re all so excited to be a part of this wonderful opportunity. It’s going to be amazing to see these statues around Portsmouth this summer. Our students are currently working on their designs and from what I’ve seen and heard so far, it’s going to be tough to narrow them down.”

Meanwhile, COPC could be represented twice – if graphics teacher Conor Clements has his design chosen for the trail.

His lion, entitled Pompey: City With A Heart, is one of dozens by local artists shortlisted for the trail.

In his proposal, he said: “It highlights the charm, beautiful places and friendly spirit the city is known for. Its title comes from a 1977 song of the same name, performed by Portsmouth Players and the Southampton All Star Orchestra. The name is not only a nod to the city and its well‑known football team, but also reflects what makes Portsmouth special – its heart and its community.”

You can see Conor’s lion along with all the other shortlisted designs at the Pride of Portsmouth website.

This week (March 2-6) is Colleges Week, a nationwide celebration of all that’s brilliant about further education, and its role in local communities. If you’re interested in working with City of Portsmouth College on a partnership or collaborative project, email us at marketing@copc.ac.uk