What began as a playful surprise on the Guilford Green has become one of the community’s most anticipated traditions. The Guilford Foundation is the lucky nonprofit beneficiary of the most recent animal cutout installations, Bearly Autumn. The collection of bears will be on display on the green until September 21, and auctions with proceeds going to TGF in support of its 50th Anniversary Capital Campaign!

“We’re so excited about the Bearly Autumn exhibit! The Foundation started in 1975 with a mission of beautifying the Green. Although we’ve expanded our scope over the past five decades, we remain committed to community enrichment,” explained Executive Director Liza Janssen Petra. “The Guilford Penguin Project’s installations spark joy for everyone who passes the Green. We are grateful for the artist’s generosity, as the donation will help us reach our lofty goal of raising $500,000 by the year’s end so we can have an even bigger impact in the next 50+ years.”

The artist, who remains anonymous, staged the first installation of 99 penguins in January 2022 with the help of friends. Since then, the project has taken on a life of its own. New creatures have joined the flock, with monkeys, polar bears, and frogs making appearances on the Green in seasonal or surprise displays. Each installation captures the imagination of the community, drawing families and passersby to stop, smile, and snap photos.

Each display is temporary and ends with the cutouts being auctioned off to benefit local nonprofits. To place a bid, visit ananauction.com.

Petra added, “The Guilford Penguin Project has been a gift to our community. It not only brings art and fun to the Green, but it also turns creativity into meaningful support for organizations that serve Guilford residents. We appreciate the impactful combination of public art and philanthropy.”

For more information about past installations visit ananonymousartist.com