Fair Ways Brings Phoenix to Life with Live Carving Event at Gunwharf Quays

Fair Ways, an award-winning, local children’s services charity, is proud to announce a spectacular live carving event taking place on Friday 17th and Saturday 18th April 2026, along the scenic marine front at Gunwharf Quays.

This two-day artistic celebration will see the creation of the main Phoenix installation, a beautiful wooden sculpture that will form the iconic centrepiece of the new Fair Ways Phoenix Journey. Once carved, the Phoenix will remain on display at Gunwharf Quays for the foreseeable future, welcoming visitors and symbolising hope, resilience, and community spirit.

The Fair Ways Phoenix Journey is an inspiring outdoor walking trail in Portsmouth designed to celebrate stories of resilience, hope and the achievements of care-experienced people. Set within the beautiful surroundings of Hilsea Lines and forming part of the wider Hilsea Lido redevelopment, the Phoenix Journey blends nature, art and storytelling into a meaningful route for families, schools and the wider community. The full trail, featuring a series of beautifully handcrafted wooden installations representing powerful narratives of growth and perseverance, will open in late 2026.

The Phoenix installation is a striking symbol of strength and renewal, rising from the ashes to signify new beginnings, making it a particularly fitting emblem for a project that highlights the strength and potential of care-experienced young people.

“We are delighted to bring this creative experience to life in the heart of Portsmouth,” said Mac McHugh, CEO of Fair Ways. “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.” 

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 firsthand, and support this fantastic initiative.”

Fair Ways would like to extend its sincere gratitude to its partners: Gunwharf Quays and Portsmouth City Council for their continued support and collaboration on this project. Their contributions have been instrumental in bringing the Phoenix Journey to life and helping create a landmark experience for Portsmouth.

Event Details:
Location: Marine front by All Bar One, Gunwharf Quays, Portsmouth
Dates: Friday 17th & Saturday 18th April 2026
Times: Live carving throughout the day (12-4pm) across both dates

For more information about Fair Ways, the Fair Ways Phoenix Journey and how to get involved, please visit www.fairways.co/phoenix-journey.