Live chainsaw carving event in Gunwharf Quays to celebrate launch of new inspiring outdoor trail in Portsmouth from children's services charity Fair Ways
A wooden phoenix which will be the centrepiece of an outdoor trail in Portsmouth is being hand carved in Gunwharf this week.
A unique artistic celebration is taking place this week with a live carving event seeing the creation of a wooden sculpture which will be the centrepiece of a new outdoor walking trail.
Shoppers at Gunwharf Quays will be able to witness the carving of a wooden phoenix on Friday, April 17 and Saturday, April 18 on the marine front outside of All Bar One. Once complete, the sculpture will remain at the shopping centre until a new walking trail is unveiled at Hilsea Lines as part of the wider Hilsea Lido development.
The sculpture and trail is arranged by local children’s services charity Fair Ways, with the Fair Ways Phoenix Journey showcasing stories of resilience, hope and the achievements of care-experienced people.
Mac McHugh, CEO of Fair Ways, said: “We are delighted to bring this creative experience to life in the heart of Portsmouth. The Phoenix embodies hope, strength and transformation, values that resonate deeply with the care-experienced community we support. We can’t wait to share this journey with everyone who visits.”
The full trail will feature a series of handcrafted wooden installations and is expected to open in late 2026. Friday and Saturday’s live carving will take place between 12pm and 4pm on both days.
Yvonne Clay, Centre Director at Gunwharf Quays, commented: “We are thrilled to be hosting the live carving event this weekend, and to become home to such a meaningful sculpture. We encourage our guests to come down, see the carving first-hand, and support this fantastic initiative.”
The Fair Ways Phoenix Journey is a project between Fair Ways, Portsmouth City Council and Gunwharf Quays. More information can be found at https://www.fairways.co/phoenix-journey/