The Art Trail at CourtX is set within a newly landscaped area that borders the site’s international-standard grass tennis courts. A gently meandering pathway leads visitors below ground level, creating an unexpected and enveloping route around the trail.

There are 10 designated art locations with grass lawns, and additional opportunities for site-specific commissions integrated into the wider planting and landscaping. The site encourages exploration, offering a mix of open views and more hidden spaces.

The landscaping phase of the project is due to complete in the coming months. Shortlisted artists will be invited to a site visit led by Fine Line Art to gain a deeper understanding of the setting and opportunities available.

Nature Anew invites a fresh, renewed way of looking at and experiencing the natural world through the lens of art, science, and technology.

Nature refers to the natural world in all its forms. This includes environmental systems, natural phenomena, plants, astronomy, and weather.

Anew signals reinterpretation, looking differently, thinking inventively, and responding creatively.

We are commissioning works that:

• Rethink how we perceive and connect with the natural world.

• Explore how technology or science can deepen our relationship with nature.

• Use art as a bridge to make those connections visible, emotional, and meaningful. The work should spark wonder, inspire awe, and invite deeper reflection.

Artworks may be analogue or tech-based, and must inspire curiosity, interaction, and imaginative engagement.

We are commissioning a range of works that may include sound, light, sculpture, kinetic elements, and more. Some may involve digital components, others may be material-based or tactile in nature.

All works must be appropriate for long-term outdoor installation, with weather-resilient and durable materials, and safe for public engagement.

Key Features:

• Nature + Technology: Merge natural forms with technological or scientific elements.

• Multi-Sensory: Engage sound, sight, touch, movement, or light for a rich, immersive experience.

• Interactive: Visitors should be able to touch, explore, activate, or otherwise engage with the work.

• Transformative: Consider how the piece may change or evolve by day and night.

• Tactile + Bold: Use colour, texture or shape to invite physical exploration and visual appeal.

• Durability + Safety: Artworks must withstand outdoor conditions and meet safety standards for public art.

This opportunity is open to artists, creatives and collectives of all experience levels, from emerging to established practitioners. We welcome applications from individuals and collectives across all backgrounds and disciplines.

Selected artists can be supported as required by a technical team, who can assist with:

• Feasibility and materials guidance

• Fabrication and engineering input

• Installation planning and delivery

• Health & safety and maintenance considerations

This is a collaborative opportunity. We are looking for creative vision and we will support you to bring it to life.

Please submit your Expression of Interest including:

1. Artist Statement (max 300 words) – Tell us about your practice and creative interests.

2. Initial Response to the Theme (max 500 words) – Share your early ideas and how your work might respond to the site and brief.

3. Portfolio – Up to 5 images or links to past work (can include sketches, experiments, or documentation).

4. CV or Bio – If applicable, Include relevant experience, exhibitions, or commissions.

5. Optional - A short video or audio statement if preferred

To submit your Expression of Interest:

Please email your submission to: info@finelineart.com

Use the subject line: Art Trail at CourtX – Expression of Interest

Don’t hesitate to get in touch, we’d love to hear from you!

Key Dates

• Expression of Interest Deadline: 29th August 2025

• Art Trail Launch Spring/Summer 2026

Budget

The budget available for this project will accommodate the production of durable, permanent outdoor sculpture and installations, and will be discussed in more detail with shortlisted artists.

CourtX

Established in 2013 as Canoe Lake Leisure Ltd to preserve the historic grass tennis courts at Canoe Lake, CourtX has since evolved into a vibrant community destination in Southsea. Home to international tournament-standard tennis facilities, including eight grass courts and six floodlit artificial grass courts, CourtX also offers a variety of amenities such as the CourtX Bar, Café Fresco, and a dynamic arts programme.

In its ongoing commitment to community engagement and cultural enrichment, CourtX has introduced the Art Trail, a newly landscaped outdoor space specifically designed to showcase site-specific sculptures and installations. This initiative transforms the surrounding environment into a welcoming outdoor space, inviting visitors to explore and connect with art in a setting that harmoniously blends creativity, nature, and wellbeing.

www.courtx.co.uk

@courtx_southsea

Fine Line Art

Fine Line Art is an arts and culture consultancy specialising in commissions, site-specific art and creative placemaking. We believe art and design can transform environments, unite communities, and inspire meaningful moments. Our mission is to bridge the gap between people and places by activating public and private spaces through strategic placemaking, bespoke artwork commissions, and innovative creative projects.

www.finelineart.com

@natasjajozsa