Release date: 26 January 2024
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is calling on artists to help turn decommissioned fire helmets into unique creations for a new charity art project.
Artists from all over West Sussex and across the UK are encouraged to submit their creative and unique ideas by 2 February 2024 to be in with a chance of seeing their concept on a real-life fire helmet.
The 25 winning designs will then be painted onto the helmets by the winning artists, exhibited at Worthing Town Hall and auctioned off, with all proceeds going to The Fire Fighters Charity.
All the fire helmets have previously been worn by firefighters and used at operational incidents.
One of the helmets includes our Assistant Chief Fire Officer's old fire helmet from his previous service, London Fire Brigade.
Over the years ACFO Peter Rickard wore the helmet when attending notable incidents, including the Croydon tram derailment in 2016 and the 2017 London Bridge attack.
Mark Andrews, Deputy Chief Fire Officer, said: “We have had some great submissions already, but now is the last chance to get your designs sent in and be part of our once-in-a-lifetime art project.
“Not only is this a great opportunity to have your work showcased and exhibited, but in doing so you will be helping to raise money for a brilliant cause that helps firefighters and their families to live healthier and happier.”
To submit your design concept, please email FRSMedia@westsussex.gov.uk. Submissions can be in any format you like (such as a photograph, digital illustration, or sketch) of the design that you would like to recreate on one of the helmets. All designs must be submitted by 2 February 2024.
Looking for inspiration? Previous designs that went to auction can be found here.
