A Bromsgrove artist's penguin sculpture for a charity in Worcester was inspired by her love of art and creativity.

Marnie Maurri, who painted The Hopmarket-sponsored penguin named Picasso, had earlier participated in the St Richard's Hospice Worcester Stands Tall initiative in 2018, and again in the hospice's Big Parade in 2021.

She is also the creative mind behind another sculpture – ‘Little Blue Makes a Wish’ - located at Cripplegate Park in the city.

Ms Maurri said: "My penguin design for the great Waddle of Worcester this summer is inspired by and a celebration of art and creativity, and all the joy that can bring to people.

"I just wanted him to be a colourful, fun character.

"I hope he makes people smile."

The Hopmarket is sponsoring the penguin sculpture along with co-sponsors Platform Housing Group and Sutcliffe Insurance as part of Worcester’s Big Parade.

The event is an eight week public art trail organised by the hospice that was launched in Worcester earlier this month.

Ms Maurri was chosen as the artist after submitting her design last year.

Over the years, she has painted more than 22 sculptures for Wild in Art projects across the country.

An independent artist and illustrator, Ms Maurri has a background in theatre design and is inspired by nature.

She specialises in privately commissioned artwork, primarily created by hand using mixed mediums on varying surfaces.

The Hopmarket is further supporting the Waddle of Worcester with an array of free summer activities at the courtyard, hosted by Spare Room Arts from July 30 until the end of August.

Bill Simpson, chairman of The Hopmarket Charity, said: "We are so delighted to be co-sponsoring Marnie’s Picasso penguin as part of this Wild in Art St Richard’s Hospice initiative.

"Her fantastic design is just wonderful and joyful and we are sure it will bring many a smile to people’s faces."

Tricia Cavell, fundraising director at St Richard’s Hospice, said: "Picasso looks stunning against the backdrop of The Hive in the city and it’s wonderful to see so many people out enjoying the sculpture trail.

"We’re so grateful to The Hopmarket and their co-sponsors for choosing this design, and to Marnie for her fabulous artwork, to support our care at St Richard’s Hospice."