A recycled art trail has returned to Teignmouth seafront for the first time since 2022.

The 18th Teignmouth Recycled Art in the Landscape (TRAIL) outdoor exhibition opened today (July 15) and features 13 sculptures created by professional artists, local schools and community groups.

This year, the organisers have collaborated with Teignmouth Lifeboat Station and Teign Heritage Centre to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Royal National Lifeboat Institute (RNLI). Artists were asked to create sculptures that are made from at least 70% recycled material that either celebrate the work of the RNLI or reflect environmental issues and the natural elements of Teignmouth’s seafront.

Among the sculptures is a collaborative project between Hazeldown Primary School and Our Lady and St Patrick’s Primary School in which old school desks have been painted and planted to reflect the importance of nurturing young minds. Artist Amy McCarthy’s ‘Ghost Ship’ reflects the wrecks of boats that are uncovered in the estuary at low tide. And artist Gail Marshall’s giant feet in ‘Carbon Footprint’ have already prompted lots of interest.

‘The trail, set against the backdrop of nature’s beauty, becomes a space where art and environmentalism intersect, offering a poignant reminder of the urgent need for sustainable practices,’ the organisers said.

The sculpture trail will remain on the promenade until September 27. Public voting for the sculptures will open later this month with the winners announced in October.

Trailart is also running free recycled art workshops throughout the summer holidays at the Teignmouth Arts Action Group (TAAG) arts and community centre.