Metro teams up with schools to bring Bulls in the City

Primary schools in the West Midlands are being invited to take part in an exciting charity art project that will bring a spectacular parade of bulls to Birmingham this summer.

As a sponsor of the Bulls in the City trail, Metro is backing this creative initiative that will see 40 vibrant, larger-than-life bull sculptures take over the city.

Inspired by Birmingham’s iconic Bullring Bull, each sculpture will be uniquely designed to celebrate the city’s heritage while raising vital funds for Birmingham Hospice.

Metro is calling on young artists from schools in the region to help design a bull.

The winning artwork will be brought to life on a calf-sized sculpture, which will be gifted to the winner’s school—along with a £250 prize.

Plus, the budding artist and their classmates will enjoy an exclusive VIP trip to Metro’s Wednesbury depot.

Sophie Allison, metro managing director, said: “We’re thrilled to be part of this incredible project that not only brings art to our streets but also supports an important cause.

“As a growing light rail transport network that connects people and communities together, we recognise that young people play a vital role in our future success, and that’s why we are putting them at the heart of our contribution to this unique celebration of Birmingham’s rich heritage.

“We can’t wait to see the creativity of young people reflected in the bull design."

Organised by Birmingham Hospice in partnership with Wild in Art, the project will see the uniquely decorated sculptures at key locations form an interactive art trail across the city, captivating residents and visitors alike.

The bull has long been a symbol of Birmingham’s strength and resilience, dating back to the 16th century, when bulls were first baited on a green near St Martin’s Church. This heritage was further established with the construction of the Bull Ring Shopping Centre in the 1960s, and more recently, the unforgettable Ozzy the Bull became a star of the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Sophie added: "This project will deepen those historical connections, and we’re excited to see how local children will bring this story to life through their designs.”

The competition has been launched now, and the winning entry will be announced in May.

Click here for more information about the Bulls in the City project.